UDA cautioned against issuing direct ticket ahead of Mbeere North mini poll
By David Nthua, August 5, 2025A group of clerics led from Embu County, led by Mbeere ACK Diocese Bishop Moses Masamba Nthukah, has cautioned the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party over the possibility of issuing a direct ticket ahead of the planned Mbeere North mini poll that will see Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku replaced.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the bishop said the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) was ready to ensure all ward and constituency positions were filled according to the law, adding that peace should prevail during the entire electoral process.
Clarion call
“We hope that peace will prevail. We are asking the people of Mbeere North to remain alert and calm.”
“We have heard that UDA has already begun its activities, and this is not just in Mbeere North but in many other places as well. We urge UDA to follow the law, including IEBC regulations.”
“If there are many candidates, there is nothing wrong with holding nominations. Without nominations, you may find the party choosing people when, in reality, nothing substantial is happening on the ground. And this is not only in Mbeere,” Masamba said.
The cleric emphasised that political parties must transparently conduct their affairs to uphold public trust, warning that any move to sidestep competitive nominations could lead to division among party supporters and disenfranchise aspirants who wish to contest.
Call for transparency
He further urged the electoral body to remain firm in applying the law equally to all parties, noting that fairness in the nomination process is crucial in maintaining democratic principles.
The Mbeere North mini poll, which follows the appointment of Geoffrey Ruku to the Cabinet, is already shaping up to be a politically charged affair.
Analysts believe it could see Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s allies face off against President William Ruto’s camp, with both sides expected to use the by-election to flex their political muscle.
Bishop Masamba maintained that while the church has no political affiliations, it holds a duty to speak out against practices that could compromise peace, fairness, and the democratic process, especially in an environment where political competition is often intense and polarised.