POLITICS
Leonard Wa Muthende Clinches Mbeere North Seat in Tight UDA–DP Contest
Celebrations erupted at the Siakago Tallying Centre after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) confirmed Wa Muthende’s victory


By : Mweru Mbugua
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Muriuki wa Muthende has been declared the MP-elect for Mbeere North following a fiercely contested by-election concluded early Friday morning
Celebrations erupted at the Siakago Tallying Centre after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) confirmed Wa Muthende’s victory
He garnered 15,802 votes, narrowly edging out Newton Kariuki Ndwiga of the Democratic Party (DP), who received 15,308 votes
Top UDA leaders, including Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, joined supporters at the centre to celebrate the win

In his acceptance speech, Wa Muthende thanked voters for their trust and pledged to unite the constituency while prioritizing key development areas such as water access, youth empowerment, road infrastructure, and bursary support
Also read : UDA’s David Ndakwa Wins Malava MP Seat in Tight By-Election Race
He further assured constituents that all ongoing projects would be completed and new ones initiated, emphasizing his commitment to inclusive leadership
IEBC officials reported that despite a few concerns raised during the day, the election was conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law