Fresh doubts have emerged over the outcome of the 2025 Mbeere North by-election after the High Court ordered a targeted recount of votes in selected polling stations. The directive, issued on Friday, March 27, puts renewed scrutiny on the contest in which United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Leonard Wamuthende had been declared the winner.
Presiding over the case at the Embu High Court, Justice Richard Mwongo ruled that a partial recount and examination of election materials should be conducted in areas where irregularities were reported. However, he dismissed broader claims of voter bribery and widespread tampering, narrowing the focus to specific concerns raised during the petition.
In his decision, Justice Mwongo noted that evidence presented by both parties, alongside the District Returning Officer’s report, pointed to inconsistencies that warranted limited scrutiny. He emphasised that the recount would not cover all polling stations, but only those flagged as problematic.
The court also singled out one ballot box, identified as “Ballot Box No. 135,” which was found to contain what were described as “strategic materials.” According to the ruling, the box was delivered to the tallying centre without proper documentation or explanation, raising questions about the integrity of the process.
The outcome of the recount is expected to play a crucial role in determining whether the initial results will stand or face further legal challenges.