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The Nairobian

Mwangaza's impeachment sparks mixed reactions in Meru

Central

By Phares Mutembei | Mar 15, 2025

Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza and her spouse Murega Baichu at the Milimani Law Courts on March 14, 2025, during the judgment of her petition challenging Senate impeachment at the Nairobi Milimani courts on 14th March 2025. [David Gichuru, Standard]

Impeached Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s heartbreak was enhanced when residents and leaders came out dancing after the court upheld her ouster.

Whereas some faulted the findings, for others it was a decision they were waiting for.

On Friday, her allies appeared subdued while those opposed to her leadership erupted in celebrations.

Members of the County Assembly, who have made several attempts to oust Mwangaza over the past two years, welcomed Justice Bahati Mwamuye’s ruling with jubilation.

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Igembe North MP Julius Taitumu expressed satisfaction and voiced confidence in Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia’s ability to lead.

“I am extremely delighted. I salute the court for upholding the Senate’s decision. It is a clear testimony that the three arms of government respect each other and are working together to protect the Constitution,” he said.

Former MCAs Julius Mbijjiwe and Irene Mutwiri also welcomed the ruling.

“I thank God for justice and fairness prevailing in Meru. This ruling reaffirms the strength of our institutions and the importance of upholding the rule of law. I hope this marks a new chapter of unity, service, and progress for our great county,” Mutwiri said.

Zero consultations

She emphasised the need for leaders to work together, accusing Mwangaza of failing to consult others.

Meanwhile, Mwangaza’s allies, including Abothoguchi West MCA Patrick Muthuri—one of about 20 MCAs out of 69 who supported her—remained hopeful. Minority Leader Mwenda Ithili, Minority Whip Dennis ‘DMK’ Kiogora, and Nominated MCA Gacheri Muthuri welcomed the verdict, describing it as just.

Kiogora, who had previously moved an impeachment motion against Mwangaza, termed the ruling the culmination of a two-year battle to remove ineffective leadership. “We have finished our journey to free Meru of bad governance. There has been no development in Meru. Now we expect DG Mutuma M’Ethingia to be sworn in,” he said.

Kiogora added that MCAs had fought to ensure public funds were used responsibly, accusing Mwangaza of failing to implement tangible development projects.

He claimed the governor had resisted efforts by the Kawira Miriti-led County Public Service Board to recruit new staff despite the Assembly approving KSh 300 million to address a staff shortage. “As MCAs, we have been fighting for public funds to be used accountably,” he said.

Ithili echoed these sentiments, saying:

“We are very happy today and thank God for giving the people of Meru justice. From now on, we expect Meru’s glory to be restored, and residents to benefit from good leadership.”