President Uhuru Kenyatta's led Jubilee Party was dealt a major blow in his home constituency, Gatundu South, after a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate was declared the winner of the constituency parliamentary race.
Gabriel Kagombe was declared the winner in the results announced by the constituency Returning Officer Maurice Ligulu.
Kagombe, a tea factory director, garnered 17, 815 votes beating five other candidates in the hot race.
His closest rival Kung'u Kibathi, an independent candidate, managed 15, 417 votes closely followed by Njinji Murigi, another independent candidate who garnered 14, 886 votes.
Jubilee Party's candidate Joyce Ngugi emerged a distant fourth only managing 5, 806 votes.
Kagombe thanks Gatundu South
Speaking after his declaration as the winner, Kagombe, a youthful man termed his victory as an answered prayer for Gatundu South residents who he said have been yearning for fresh leadership.
Kagombe, who thanked God for the victory, said he managed to floor mighty politicians because of residents' resolve to have a leader who can articulate their social-economic issues.
"I am a representative of hustlers and they are the majority here in Gatundu South. We are now set to work for the people without fear of favour. Despite all the intimidation by the government, finally, the people have spoken at the ballot, " Kagombe said.
His victory was welcomed by locals who expressed optimism that Kagombe would champion their issues in parliament and government at large.
"We are happy and our cry is over. Finally, the people of Gatundu South can proudly say that a fellow hustler will represent them in parliament. We expect him to improve the education standards here besides finishing the incomplete infrastructural projects," Ann Mwangi, a voter, said.
