UDA’s Leonard Wa Muthende narrowly beats DP's Newton Kariuki to clinch Mbeere North seat

Jubilant scenes unfolded at the Siakago Tallying Centre early Friday morning after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) declared the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Muriuki wa Muthende the MP-elect for Mbeere North.

UDA’s top leadership, led by Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Cabinet Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development Geoffrey Ruku, and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, arrived at the centre shortly after the announcement to celebrate the victory alongside supporters.

According to official IEBC tallies, Wa Muthende garnered 15,802 votes, narrowly defeating his closest challenger, Newton Kariuki Ndwiga of the Democratic Party (DP), who secured 15,308 votes.

The tightly contested race kept voters and party agents on edge throughout as results streamed in from across the constituency.

MP-elect Wa Muthende thanked voters for the trust bestowed upon him, promising to unify the constituency and prioritize development projects across all wards.

He pledged to work closely with both national and county governments to address persistent challenges including water scarcity, youth unemployment, and road infrastructure.

“I want to thank the IEBC for conducting a free and fair election…I will serve you all regardless of how you voted…I will focus on bursaries…Whatever project was underway I will complete and start new ones,” said Wa Muthende.

IEBC officials noted that despite isolated concerns raised by various camps during the day, the poll was conducted smoothly and within the law.