Newton Karish, former parliamentary candidate for Mbeere North, has dismissed widespread rumors that he has abandoned his 2027 bid for the Mbeere North Member of Parliament seat in favor of incumbent Leo Wa Muthende.
The statement, which circulated on social media on July 28, 2026, falsely claimed Karish would not contest any elective position in Embu County and had thrown his support behind Wa Muthende. Karish labeled the information as fabricated and accused political opponents of spreading misinformation.
On his official Facebook page, Karish wrote, “It is true I have been listening to the people of Mbeere North and Embu at large. Among the things we have agreed, supporting thieves who stole our victory is not included. Ignore the fake news from that desperate team.”
Continued Political Engagement
Karish has maintained an active political profile since contesting Wa Muthende’s 2025 by-election victory through the courts. Recently, he celebrated the conclusion of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) voter registration drive, highlighting that Mbeere North added 6,320 new voters.
He posted, “In the just concluded IEBC voter registration in Mbeere North, we have added a whopping 6,320 new voters. My good people, what would you propose to be our next assignment? You are my bosses. Nitatii.” Supporters interpreted this as a clear indication that Karish remains focused on the 2027 parliamentary race.
Political Contest Heats Up
The fake endorsement falsely asserted Karish’s support for Wa Muthende and his withdrawal from the 2027 race. Karish rejected this as propaganda from a desperate faction.
This episode underscores the intensifying political rivalry in Mbeere North as candidates position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election. Wa Muthende currently holds the seat after the 2025 by-election, while Karish continues to be a prominent opposition figure in the constituency.
