Kuria denies plot to split votes in Mbeere North by-election

Former Senior Economic Advisor to the president, Moses Kuria, has dismissed claims that he and the Chama Cha Kazi (CCK) party engineered a plot to split votes in the Mbeere North by-election, calling the accusations unfounded.

In a statement on Saturday, Kuria said he was “amused” by suggestions that CCK fielded a candidate to weaken the opposition’s chances.

He added that neither he nor the party had any agreements with other coalitions or candidates that were not honoured.

“I am amused by those saying the CCK party, and I were on a mission to divide votes in Mbeere North,” Kuria said.

“Did we have a deal with anyone that we failed to honour? Were we even approached for a deal and declined?”

Kuria defended the party’s decision to sponsor Duncan Mbui, noting that CCK picked him after he was dropped.

He also questioned why opposition parties did not unite behind a single candidate, pointing out that UDA had managed to consolidate its aspirants.

“We picked Hon Duncan Mbui after he was dropped. UDA united all aspirants who lost to (MP-elect Leo) Wamuthende in the nominations. Why didn’t the opposition do the same?” he said on X.

He further noted that the race included five additional candidates besides the three frontrunners, questioning why CCK was being singled out.

“There were five other candidates other than (DCP's Newton) Karish, Wamuthende and Mbui. Who had sent these other five?” he asked.

Kuria also downplayed his influence in the polls, saying he was the only politician from outside Mbeere who campaigned for Mbui, while Karish’s team received support from several national leaders.

“How do I garner 2,480 votes when I am alone, enough to spoil your votes?” he asked.

He added that UDA’s strong showing in the region suggested his involvement was not decisive in the outcome.

“How does the opposition allow UDA to garner over 15,000 votes in Mt Kenya and then blame one with only 2,480 votes?” he said.

Kuria also defended the party’s legitimacy, noting that CCK was registered in 2021 and has consistently sponsored candidates.

“CCK was formed on 17 August 2021. We have been around long before other parties. The business of parties is sponsoring candidates,” he said.

The Mbeere North MP by-election, conducted on Thursday, saw Wamuthende emerge victorious, solidifying UDA's presence in Embu County.

Wamuthende secured 15,802 votes, edging out his closest rival, Karish, who received 15,308 votes.