Political analyst Wahome Thuku described Mbui’s move as proof of opposition unity aimed at fielding a single candidate to face off with President William Ruto’s choice.
“This move has rattled the government and its allies,” he said.
However, after weeks of tension between Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi and Mr. Gachagua over the seat, it now appears that the former Deputy President has agreed to let Muturi’s party field the opposition candidate.
Mr. Muturi vowed that DP was determined to reclaim the seat in the by-election and flatly rejected giving DCP the opportunity to carry the opposition banner.
He added that DP also plans to participate in all the upcoming by-elections – setting the stage for a showdown between the two parties.
Political analysts say Mbui’s withdrawal is a blow to Gachagua, who badly needed this victory to cement his stature as the political kingpin of Mt. Kenya heading into 2027.
According to Embu political analyst Malila Munywoki, if both Mbui and Kariuki had insisted on staying in the race, the UDA candidate would have had a clear advantage. But if the opposition unites, then a real contest is expected.
The seat fell vacant after President Ruto appointed the area’s MP, Geoffrey Ruku, as Cabinet Secretary for Public Service.
Ruku had been elected on a DP ticket, later assuming party leadership after Muturi was ousted from the post by the President.
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