In a powerful show of unity and political direction, over 5,600 Mbeere elders have declared their support for a pro-government candidate in the upcoming Mbeere North parliamentary by-election, aligning themselves with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and its development agenda.
The declaration was made during the “5600 Elders Baraza,” a massive gathering held at Siakago Girls’ Grounds in Mbeere North, where elders from across the constituency pledged to rally the community behind a UDA candidate.
The event marked a significant political endorsement for the party and the government it leads.
Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, who attended the gathering, lauded the elders for their unity and commitment to national development.
He assured them of a free and fair by-election, emphasizing that the government would not interfere with the democratic process.
However, he urged the residents to support the UDA candidate, arguing that such alignment would fast-track ongoing and future development projects in the region.
said Prof. Kindiki, vowing to perso“The government has returned a Cabinet position to this region.
The people of Mbeere should reciprocate by voting for a government-backed candidate. Don’t let me down,” nally lead the campaign in Mbeere.
During the event, the Deputy President announced the resumption of key infrastructure and agricultural projects previously stalled due to budget constraints.
These include: Tarmacking of the Kanyuambora–Kamumu–Kageri road, Expansion of Kanyuambora and Kamata irrigation schemes, Rural electrification projects, Upgrade of the Gikuyari–Kirie–Ishiara road to bitumen standards.
Prof. Kindiki assured the residents that funding had been secured and that the projects would be completed by 2027.
The by-election was triggered by the appointment of former Mbeere North MP Hon. Geoffrey Ruku as Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes.
His elevation has been widely celebrated in the region.
In a formal statement read by Ben Kanyenji of the Ng’ome Council, the Mbeere elders expressed their gratitude to President William Ruto and the Deputy President for recognizing their community, describing Ruku’s appointment as a significant milestone for the numerically small but professionally accomplished Mbeere people.
“We pledge our full support for the government and will deliver victory to its candidate,” the elders declared.
So far, eight aspirants have expressed interest in the UDA ticket. Prof. Kindiki assured that the party will conduct a transparent nomination process and urged all candidates to support the eventual nominee.
He also promised that those who do not clinch the ticket will be considered for government roles, highlighting the administration’s inclusive approach.
CS Ruku, who accompanied the Deputy President, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to local development and echoed the elders’ call for political unity.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is yet to announce the official by-election date, but the political groundwork is already taking shape, with Mbeere elders now positioned as key influencers in determining the constituency’s next representative.
