Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has explained why he shifted his campaign focus to Mbeere North ahead of the upcoming by-election, saying he acted after receiving reports that local supporters were becoming discouraged due to alleged intimidation.
Speaking during a campaign stop in Embu County, Gachagua said many residents believed the government would interfere with the vote, leading to low levels of enthusiasm.
He stated that his decision to return to the constituency was driven by the need to reassure supporters of independent candidate Karish, who he said had expressed fears about potential rigging.
According to Gachagua, the concerns were widespread enough to warrant an immediate change of campaign schedule.
“When I learned that many people here felt the government would rig the election and saw no need to vote, I knew I had to come and assure them,” he said. “We have put in place sufficient strategies to protect their votes.”
The Mbeere North by-election has drawn national attention as political alliances regroup ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The region has historically seen competitive races, and concerns about voter turnout have been central to campaign messaging from various camps.
Gachagua’s involvement adds another layer to the contest, given his recent political activities and public criticism of government operations.
He revealed that he had been scheduled to campaign in Malava but cancelled the plan after what he described as a symbolic phone call from an elder in his home area.
“I wanted to rush to Nairobi, fly to Kisumu, then proceed to Malava,” he said. “But an old man from home called me, told me a proverb and hung up. I interpreted it to mean that one should take care of matters at home first.”
Gachagua said the message reminded him of the importance of consolidating support in his political base before expanding campaign efforts elsewhere.
He added that he intends to continue engaging residents to boost confidence in the electoral process.
The by-election is expected to attract close monitoring from party officials, independent observers, and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, which has urged all candidates to maintain peace and uphold electoral laws.