Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has cancelled a planned campaign trip to Malava, saying he redirected his focus to Mbeere North after learning that supporters there were increasingly anxious about alleged intimidation and possible interference in the upcoming by-election.
Gachagua said the feedback prompted him to remain in Embu County, where he has been campaigning for independent candidate Karish.
Speaking during a stopover in the constituency, Gachagua explained that supporters had raised fears that the government might influence the results, discouraging some from participating in the poll.
He said he considered the situation serious enough to abandon his Western Kenya itinerary.
“I was supposed to go to Malava yesterday. I wanted to rush to Nairobi and take a plane to Kisumu, then go to Malava,” he said. “But many supporters here were feeling intimidated and feared the government would rig, so I had to come and encourage them to vote.”
According to Gachagua, residents told him they were losing confidence in the electoral process, prompting him to engage them directly.
He said his team had put mechanisms in place to safeguard votes and restore trust among the electorate.
The Mbeere North by-election has become a focal point in the wider battle for political influence ahead of future national campaigns.
The contest is drawing intensified mobilisation from different factions, with voter turnout expected to play a significant role in determining the final outcome.
Gachagua revealed that his final decision to prioritise Mbeere North was reinforced by a brief but symbolic call from an elder in his home area.
“An old man called me, gave me a proverb, and hung up,” he said. “I understood it to mean that one should handle matters at home first before going elsewhere.”
He said the message reminded him that securing support in regions where his influence remains strong was crucial before expanding campaign activities.
Gachagua noted that he would continue engaging constituents to counter voter apathy and ensure peaceful participation.