The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is defending a court petition challenging the victory of Mbeere North MP Leo Wa Muthende in the November 27 by-election. Petitioners claim his name change compromised the poll, but IEBC says name discrepancies had no impact. The case is set for hearing on January 15, 2026.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has asked the High Court to dismiss a petition challenging Leo Wa Muthende's win in the Mbeere North by-election held on November 27, 2025. Petitioners Julieta Karigi and Patrick Gitonga claim the MP's name change from Leonard Muriuki Njeru and the persistence of his old name in the voter register and election materials compromised the poll. They seek annulment of the victory and an independent probe.
IEBC and the returning officer argue the by-election was valid and complied with the Constitution and election laws. They deny any fraud or errors. The voter register was frozen since June 21, 2022, allowing no changes, including names. “The two names did not affect his identification or credentials, nor did they disadvantage any opponent or voter,” says IEBC lawyer Charles Mwongela.
Wa Muthende legally changed his name before nomination and submitted all required documents, including a gazette notice. He was identified via the KIEMS device as a registered voter. Ballot papers featured his name, party symbol, and photo. During candidate nomination in October 2025, returning officer John Mwii Kinyua was hospitalized, so duties were handed to his deputy, Curtis Mawira Njeru, a move deemed lawful under regulations.
IEBC states name discrepancies were unavoidable and caused no harm to rivals or voters. The by-election was announced in August 2025, using the 2022 register.
