The Embu High Court has ordered a fresh recount of votes in the Mbeere North by-election, reopening the contest and giving new hope to Newton Karish of the Democratic Party.
The by-election, held last November, was initially won by Leonard Wamuthende of UDA by a very narrow margin of fewer than 500 votes. The close result had already raised concerns among voters and political observers.
Soon after the announcement, Karish moved to court, claiming there were serious irregularities in 32 out of 134 polling stations.
His legal team cited issues such as possible counting errors, missing forms, and inconsistencies that could have affected the final outcome.
During the hearings, the court reviewed the evidence presented by both sides. Notably, Wamuthende did not appear for cross-examination and instead relied on his sworn affidavit.
Karish’s lawyers argued that a recount was necessary to ensure transparency and to confirm the true will of the voters. The court agreed, ordering a full scrutiny and recount of the ballots.
The decision has been welcomed by Karish’s supporters, who believe the recount could overturn the initial results.
Many residents say the election was tense and that doubts over the outcome have affected trust in the process.
Political analysts now say the recount will be a key test of electoral integrity. The results could either confirm the initial winner or lead to a major shift in leadership.
For the people of Mbeere North, the next phase will be crucial as they wait to see whether the recount changes the outcome and brings clarity to the disputed election.
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