The race for the Mbeere North parliamentary seat has officially begun as the Devolution Empowerment Party, known as the BUS party, announced Newton Karis as their candidate. The announcement was made during a press briefing led by party chairman Lenny Kivuti on Saturday.
Kivuti expressed strong confidence in Karis, saying the BUS party is fully prepared to take on the competition. The by-election was triggered after Geoffrey Ruku, the former MP, was appointed by President William Ruto as the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programs.
BUS Party Eyes Bigger Goals for 2027
At the press conference, Lenny Kivuti made it clear that the BUS party is aiming not just for Mbeere North, but for national growth. He stated that the party will remain independent and has no plans to merge with any other political group.
“The BUS party will stay autonomous — not now, not ever, until Jesus comes,” Kivuti declared.
He added that the party is currently focused on building strong grassroots networks, conducting mass membership registration, and offering political education in counties across Kenya.
Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, a senior leader in the BUS party, supported Kivuti’s message. He said the party’s strategy is to focus on internal strength rather than alliances.
“Our goal is 2027. We are not rushing to join forces with others. Let others come to us,” Murungi emphasized.
Newton Karis Ready for Tough Battle
Newton Karis, now the face of the BUS party in Mbeere North, voiced his readiness for the campaign. Speaking after the announcement, he said they are waiting for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to set the election date so they can start campaigning.
“We are more than ready for this by-election. Let IEBC give us the date; we are hitting the ground running,” Karis said.
The Mbeere North by-election is expected to be highly competitive. Several strong candidates are preparing to run against Karis, including:
- Former MP Muriuki Njagagua
- Dr. Murage Njagagua, brother of Muriuki
- Embu County Speaker Josiah Thiriku
- Philanthropist Jacob Ireri Mbao, who is deaf
- Evurore MCA Duncan Mbui
- Konji Kwayo
Other candidates may still join the race as political discussions continue behind the scenes.
Political Bigwigs Take Interest
The Mbeere North seat has attracted attention from major political players. Sources suggest that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua could endorse a candidate, although it is not yet clear whether he will support the BUS party’s Newton Karis or back someone else.
Kenya Kwanza, the coalition that supported Geoffrey Ruku in the last election, is also expected to field a strong candidate. This adds more weight to the by-election, making it a critical test of political strength ahead of the 2027 general election.
In addition, former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, a native of Mbeere North, is reportedly planning to support his own candidate. Muturi’s involvement could split votes and make the contest even tougher.
Background: Why the Seat Became Vacant
The Mbeere North seat became vacant when Geoffrey Ruku was promoted to President Ruto’s Cabinet. Ruku’s new role focuses on public service human capital development and special programs. His departure left a power vacuum in the constituency, setting the stage for a fierce political battle.
This by-election comes at a time when political temperatures across Kenya are rising, with parties preparing early for the 2027 elections.
What to Expect Next
The IEBC is expected to announce the official by-election date soon. Once the date is confirmed, candidates will hit the campaign trail hard.
Observers believe that the by-election will serve as a signal of which political forces are gaining ground ahead of the next general elections.
