Deputy President Kithure Kindiki set social media alight after posting a five-word message, “Pride comes before a fall…,” hours after the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party candidate Leonard Muthende won the Mbeere North by-election on 27 November 2025.
The post came amid increasingly bitter exchanges between Kindiki and his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, during the campaign, giving the impression that the message was directed at Gachagua and prompting a flurry of online reactions.
The Mbeere contest effectively became a proxy battle between the two senior leaders from the Mount Kenya region. Kindiki actively campaigned for Muthende (Leo Wa Muthende), repeatedly criticising Gachagua for what he described as insults and divisive tactics.
At a rally in Kanyuambora, Kindiki said, “I will deal with you.” On other occasions, he warned he would expose Gachagua’s failings and politically “silence” him at the polls, remarks that further escalated tensions.
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On his part, Gachagua campaigned for Newton Karish of the Democratic Party (DP) and accused Kindiki’s camp of interfering in the by-election, alleging that some associates sought to manipulate voter registration by procuring ID cards from young voters.
He also expressed concern over rising tensions and what he described as intimidation in the constituency, urging voters to exercise their rights freely and warning against any attempts to suppress participation.
The timing of Kindiki’s post created the impression that he was taking a pointed swipe at the former deputy president, especially given his prior claims of defeating him in the poll.
Mbeere North residents went to the polls on 27 November 2025, voting Muthende as their MP-elect. He defeated Karish and several other contenders, securing 15,802 votes to Karish’s 15,308.
Speaking after his victory, Muthende thanked constituents and reaffirmed his commitment to serving all residents of Mbeere North.
He pledged fairness in distributing bursaries and development projects, stating: “I want to thank the people of Mbeere North, whichever side you choose. I am now a member of the National Assembly. I have made a commitment not only to those who elected me but to all residents of Mbeere North. I will be fair, I will discharge my duties without any discrimination; I will meet all my pledges, I will ensure fair distribution of bursaries, free secondary education for day schools, and development.”
Here are some reactions from Kindiki’s post:
