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Gachagua Alleges Vote-Buying Scheme in Mbeere North By-Election Campaign

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised serious allegations of vote-buying in Mbeere North, claiming that political leaders are purchasing national identification cards from young voters ahead of the upcoming by-election.

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Speaking during a media interview on Saturday, November 22, Gachagua alleged that some leaders are offering youths between Ksh2,000 and Ksh5,000 for their IDs to prevent them from participating in the electoral process.

“I have just been told that some leaders are buying IDs for young people so that they don’t go and vote,” the Democratic for Citizens Party (DCP) leader stated. “It is very sad if you sell your ID for Ksh5,000 or Ksh2,000 and then you deny yourself the right to choose a representative who will determine your future.”

Gachagua further claimed that additional inducements are being offered to sway voters toward specific candidates, alleging that senior leaders from President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance Party are behind the strategy.

The former deputy president appealed directly to young voters, warning them against accepting such offers. He characterized Kenya’s youth, particularly Generation Z, as crucial agents of change who have consistently held the government accountable.

“The Gen-Zs are the pillar of transformation in our country, because they are the ones who are opposing wrongdoings by the government,” Gachagua said. “I will be extremely saddened when they are given money and they forget that they are the ones who started telling us to help them make Ruto a one-term president.”

The Mbeere North by-election has attracted significant political attention, with several high-profile figures establishing campaign operations in the constituency. Gachagua is supporting United Opposition candidate Newton Karish, while Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is campaigning for UDA’s Leonard Muthende. Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, representing Chama Cha Kazi Party, is backing Ireri Mbui.

Gachagua’s allegations came shortly after Kuria issued his own warning regarding the elections. In a Saturday press briefing, Kuria cautioned the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) against tolerating security lapses or electoral irregularities, citing concerns about insecurity in multiple constituencies.

“I was here in 2007, and I saw what Kenya went through, and I can’t keep quiet because my heart has no peace,” Kuria stated, referencing the post-election violence that followed Kenya’s disputed 2007 presidential election. “If you look in Narok, Mbeere North, and other areas, there is widespread insecurity. I want to ask President William Ruto directly, the international community is watching.”

Kuria indicated that he has engaged with senior election officials to ensure enhanced security for campaign activities and warned that any electoral chaos could damage Kenya’s international standing.

The by-election campaign continues as authorities face mounting pressure to ensure a free, fair, and secure electoral process.