The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced the dates for by-elections in Muminji and Evurore wards in Mbeere North.
In a statement released on Saturday, the commission confirmed that the two ward by-elections will be held on February 26, 2026.
The announcement sets the stage for another high-stakes political contest in Embu County, pitting Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in a renewed battle for political dominance.
The ward seats became vacant after former Members of County Assembly Newton Kariuki and Duncan Mbui resigned to contest the Mbeere North parliamentary seat. Both candidates, however, lost the race to United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leo Wamuthende.
Wamuthende was backed by Ruku, while his main rival, Newton Kariuki of the Democratic Party (DP), received support from Gachagua.
Speaking on Saturday in Rwika during the Mbeere cultural festival, Ruku expressed confidence that UDA would secure victory in both wards. He claimed that Gachagua’s political influence in the Mt. Kenya region is gradually declining.
Ruku also accused Gachagua of interfering in recent by-elections, alleging that hired goons were used to disrupt the electoral process—claims that Gachagua’s allies have previously dismissed.
With the campaign period now officially underway, the February by-elections are expected to act as a crucial political test, offering early indications of shifting loyalties and party strength in the region ahead of future elections.
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