United Opposition’s parliamentary candidate in the Mbeere North by-election, Newton Karish, has formally rejected the results of the November 27 poll – a move that mirrors the hardline stance recently taken by his counterpart Seth Panyako, who also dismissed his own election outcome.
Breaking his five-day silence, Karish released a statement on December 4, 2025, declaring that he would contest the validity of the election, which saw UDA candidate Leonard Wa Muthende declared the winner. Wa Muthende garnered 15,802 votes against Karish’s 15,308, a narrow margin that has intensified scrutiny and political tension in the constituency.
Karish urged his supporters to remain calm but firm as he embarks on a legal battle over what he terms a “deeply flawed” and “unjust” election process.
“I urge you to be calm, maintain peace and be patient as we pursue the next steps to fight for justice over the just concluded by-election outcome,” Newton Karish
Karish Aligns With Panyako’s Rejection of Weekend Polls
Just like Panyako – who recently rejected government-backed results in his own race – Karish insists that the Mbeere North contest was marred by orchestrated malpractice. His rejection adds to the growing wave of opposition voices challenging the credibility of recent by-elections across the country.
Voters Move to Court as Legitimacy Questions Deepen
Karish’s announcement came hours after two voters filed a petition in court on December 4 seeking to overturn Wa Muthende’s win and call for a fresh election. The petitioners allege that the UDA MP-elect was not a registered voter in Mbeere North, raising questions about his eligibility to run.
Claims of Irregularities Intensify
The United Opposition claims the by-election featured: Voter bribery, marked ballot paper, goonism and intimidation ,and interference at polling stations.
Meanwhile, UDA has counter-accused the opposition of similar misconduct, alleging the use of hired goons to intimidate voters – a reflection of the mutual mistrust that has defined this by-election.
Karish Thanks Supporters, Vows to Keep Fighting
Karish celebrated his supporters for standing with him despite the contentious process:
“Today, I celebrate you – the peasants, the youth, the women, the elders, and every resident who believes in a better and brighter Mbeere North. Together, against all odds, we have shown that when a people stand united, nothing is impossible.”
He added that he remains committed to serving the people of Mbeere North with integrity, humility, and dedication, promising to continue pushing for a more inclusive future for the constituency.