The Embu High Court has upheld Leonard Wamuthende’s election as the Member of Parliament for Mbeere North, dismissing a petition that sought to overturn his victory in the November 2025 by-election.
In a judgment delivered on Thursday, Justice Richard Mwongo ruled that the petitioner failed to provide sufficient evidence to warrant nullification of the election under the Constitution and the Elections Act.
“The evidence presented before this court does not meet the threshold required to invalidate the election,” Justice Mwongo said.
The petition had been filed by Democratic Party candidate Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, popularly known as Karish, who challenged Wamuthende’s win citing alleged voter manipulation, tallying inconsistencies, bribery, voter interference and violence at polling stations.
However, the court found that the claims had not been proved to the required legal standard in election disputes, stressing that courts cannot overturn the will of voters without credible and convincing evidence.
The case had attracted public attention after the court ordered a scrutiny and partial recount of votes cast in the constituency following claims of violence at Kaungu polling station. The petitioner argued that the incident may have compromised the integrity of the election process.
Ballot materials were later examined under court supervision as part of the scrutiny exercise.
Wamuthende, who contested on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, won the closely contested by-election held after the seat fell vacant following the appointment of former MP Geoffrey Ruku to the Cabinet.
The ruling now secures Wamuthende’s position in Parliament and delivers a political boost to the ruling UDA party in Embu County.
Speaking after the judgment, Wamuthende thanked supporters for standing by him throughout the legal battle and termed the ruling a victory for the people of Mbeere North.
“This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to the great people of Mbeere North who spoke clearly through the ballot. Your trust, prayers and unwavering support gave me strength throughout this process,” he said.
He also praised his legal team for what he described as professionalism and commitment in defending the will of voters.
At the same time, the MP extended an olive branch to his political rival, urging him to work together for the development and unity of the constituency.
“Politics should never divide us permanently. Leadership is about service to the people, not endless political battles,” Wamuthende said.
He further accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of using his opponent for political interests, urging leaders to focus on development instead of divisive politics.
Wamuthende pledged to continue working with the national government to implement development projects and improve the livelihoods of residents in Mbeere North.
