FROM BENGA BEATS TO BALLOT BOXES: NEWTON KARISH TARGETS MBEERE NORTH SEAT

Celebrated Benga musician-turned-politician Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, popularly known as Newton Karish, has officially declared his candidacy for the Mbeere North parliamentary seat.
Karish, a three-term MCA representing Muminji Ward, rose to fame in the early 1990s with hit songs such as “Muthoni Kifagio,” “Ngoma Bila Nguo,” “Avai Mwari,” and “Safari ya Meru.” Over the years, he has built a reputation as both an entertainer and a grassroots leader.
Born in Gangara, Karish excelled academically at Kegonge Secondary School but was forced to abandon further studies due to financial challenges. His musical journey began while still in primary school, blending Embu and Kamba rhythms with storytelling guitar solos. He later formed the Gangara Boys Band alongside his brother Onesmus Ndwiga, known as Ones wa Ngari.
Beyond performance, Karish has mentored young musicians through his “Guitar ya Karish” initiative, recently marking 40 years in music with a celebration in Embu that featured live shows, mentorship sessions, and rewards for upcoming artists.
Now seeking to extend his influence from the stage to the political arena, Karish has been unveiled as the Democratic Party’s (DP) candidate for the upcoming by-election. Party leaders describe him as a charismatic figure with deep community roots and one of the most recognizable opposition faces in Embu politics.
The Mbeere North seat fell vacant following Geoffrey Ruku’s appointment to the Cabinet. Karish will face off against strong contenders, including UDA-backed former MP Muriuki Njagagua and several other local heavyweights.
Known for his bold and outspoken style, both in music and politics, Karish often mirrors his artistic persona on the campaign trail—complete with shiny outfits, cowboy hats, and sharp shoes inspired by Congolese star Kanda Bongo Man.
As the by-election campaign takes shape, Newton Karish’s journey from Benga beats to ballot boxes is expected to inject both color and intensity into the race for Mbeere North.