Kenya, Sept. 10 -- Mbeere North MP race dynamics took a dramatic turn today as aspirant Duncan Mbui announced his switch to Moses Kuria's Chama Cha Kazi (CCK) party, abandoning his bid for the Democratic Congressional Party (DCP) ticket.
The move, unveiled during a lively rally in Ishiara, comes after Mbui failed to secure the DCP nomination, which he claims favoured a rival candidate backed by Justin Muturi's Democratic Party (DP).
Mbui asserts this strategic shift will bolster his chances in the hotly contested November 27 by-election following Geoffrey Ruku's appointment to the cabinet. Mbui, previously the Evurore MCA and a key figure in Rigathi Gachagua's DCP, cited betrayal within the party as his reason for defecting.
Speaking to a cheering crowd, he accused DCP leaders of sidelining him in favour of a DP-endorsed candidate, prompting his exit on September 6. His new alliance with Kuria, a former Cabinet Secretary and CCK founder, was cemented when Kuria handed him the party certificate, signalling strong backing from the revived outfit.
The rally featured local leaders like Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who vowed continued support, highlighting Mbui's grassroots appeal in Evurore, the constituency's vote-rich ward.
The political landscape in Mbeere North has grown increasingly complex, with candidates backed by President William Ruto, Muturi, and retired President Uhuru Kenyatta vying for dominance.
Mbui's switch adds a fresh layer, as Kuria's CCK reemerges after a 2022 merger with UDA, now positioning itself as a wildcard in the race. Supporters see their choice as a bold move to unify local voters, while rivals argue it reflects desperation after losing DCP favour.
Community meetings in the coming weeks will test Mbui's ability to rally beyond his base. As the Mbeere North MP race heats up, Mbui's gamble on Chama Cha Kazi could redefine voter loyalties before the polls.
With Kuria's endorsement and Mukunji's pledge, he aims to leverage regional pride and anti-establishment sentiment to secure victory. The by-election promises a tight contest, with Mbui's adaptability potentially reshaping the political future of this vibrant constituency.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.