Gachagua claims Sh600m campaign cash deployed in Mbeere North race

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua addresses a rally after a church service at A.C.K St. Stephen’s Karangare Church, Ishiara Mbeere North/HANDOUT

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised concern over what he terms as voter bribery and state interference in the Mbeere North constituency ahead of the November 27 by-election.

Speaking at A.C.K St. Stephen’s Karangare Church in Ishiara on Sunday, Gachagua alleged that the government was using significant financial resources to support UDA candidate Leonard “Leo” Muriuki, popularly known as Leo wa Muthende.

Muriuki is facing off against Democratic Party (DP) candidate Newton Kariuki, also known as Newton Karish.

Gachagua claimed that money was being used to sway voters and urged residents to make independent decisions at the ballot. He further alleged that the funds involved were public resources.

“Take all the money they bring here, some Sh600 million. That money is enough to connect every home in Mbeere North with power,” he said, adding that residents should make their own voting choices.

He told the congregation that the opposition team would monitor the electoral process closely to ensure transparency.

“Do not be worried. They will not steal our votes. We will be vigilant,” he said.

Gachagua also urged voters to back Karish, whom he supports, rather than what he described as a government-sponsored candidate.

He further cautioned against the possibility of disruptions during the by-election, claiming there were reports of attempts to bring non-local individuals into the constituency during the campaign period.

“We have information that those spearheading the campaigns for the government here are looking for people from other areas to come and cause problems in Mbeere North,” he claimed.

“Do not send people here to cause trouble. Let the competition be fair.”

His remarks reflect concerns raised earlier by former CS Justin Muturi, who has written to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) asking for assurance of a secure and transparent poll.

In his letter dated November 20 and addressed to IEBC chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon, Muturi alleged that groups of individuals had been deployed to the constituency during the campaign period.

He also claimed the groups were operating with the knowledge of some local officials and law enforcement personnel. Muturi said their concern was that such groups might attempt to interfere with voting in areas considered Karish’s strongholds.

The IEBC is yet to publicly respond to the issues raised.