EMBU, KENYA – Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has intensified the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party’s campaign in Mbeere North, urging residents to elect Leonard Wamuthende Leo by framing the vote as a choice between continued development and political opposition. Speaking at rallies in Muthanthara and Kirie on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 (EAT), Kindiki explicitly linked support for the UDA candidate to the timely completion of government-funded projects.

The by-election, scheduled for Thursday, November 27, 2025, was triggered by the appointment of former Member of Parliament Geoffrey Ruku as a Cabinet Secretary. The contest is widely seen as a litmus test for the political influence of President William Ruto's administration and the opposition, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, in the wider Mt. Kenya region.

Development as a Political Tool

At the core of the UDA campaign is a portfolio of infrastructure projects that Kindiki presented as evidence of President Ruto's commitment to a region he claims has suffered historical marginalization. He warned voters that electing an opposition candidate could jeopardize these initiatives. “The development needs of Mbeere North are massive. We cannot afford to gamble with them again. Those telling you to join the opposition do not have your best interests at heart,” Kindiki stated.

The Deputy President detailed several key projects, including:

• Roads: Tarmacking of the Siakago–Kanyuambora, Gikuyari–Ishiara, and Kanyuambora–Kamumu roads.
• Water Supply: A Sh1.3 billion project to supply water from the Kiambere Dam to both Mbeere North and Mbeere South is underway. Additionally, he cited the Sh250 million Kanyuambora Ward Water Project and the Sh150 million Kamata Water Project in Nthawa Ward.
• Electricity: An initial allocation of Sh336 million for last-mile electricity connections, which Kindiki announced would be increased to Sh600 million following his intervention.

“It will be easier for Leo to push the government to complete these projects because he will enjoy the support of other Embu leaders and have access to top government officials, including our President,” Kindiki argued, pledging to personally oversee their implementation.

A Fiercely Contested Race

The Mbeere North race has evolved into a tight contest, primarily between UDA's Leonard Wamuthende Leo and the Democratic Party (DP) candidate, Newton Kariuki, who is backed by a united opposition front that includes former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Recent polling data indicates a narrow margin between the two frontrunners, making the election too close to call. A survey by Mizani Africa conducted between November 17 and 19 showed Wamuthende with 44.6% support against Kariuki's 42.4%, a difference that falls within the poll's margin of error.

The high-level political figures involved underscore the by-election's national significance. While Kindiki and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire lead the UDA charge, Gachagua has been conducting intensive door-to-door campaigns for Kariuki, framing the election as a chance to resist the ruling party's influence in the region.

Implications for Governance

The strategy of tying development funding directly to electoral outcomes is a long-standing feature of Kenyan politics. The UDA campaign in Mbeere North exemplifies the use of state resources and the promise of future projects to consolidate political power at a local level. This approach places voters in a position where their choice of representation is presented as a critical factor in receiving government services and infrastructure.

As the November 27 polling day approaches, the residents of Mbeere North face a decision that will not only select their next Member of Parliament but is also being portrayed as a crucial verdict on their alignment with the national government and the future of multi-billion shilling projects in their constituency.