Political Showdown in Meru: Kawira Mwangaza Returns to Work Despite Impeachment, Sparks Outrage
Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza resumed her official duties on Friday, August 23, despite her recent impeachment, escalating the ongoing political tension in the county.
Her return, surrounded by heightened security, ignited outrage among Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), who have been vocal critics of her bold move.
Although Mwangaza was first seen at her office on Thursday, the extent of her power became evident when it emerged she had regained full control of county operations, raising legal concerns.
Senator Kathuri Murungi, a central figure in the unfolding political drama, urged Mwangaza to hold off on resuming duties until the court delivers a final ruling on her petition challenging the impeachment.
Despite Murungi’s appeal, the Governor continued to engage with her Cabinet, sharing updates on Facebook that emphasized her focus on critical county issues.
Mwangaza highlighted her commitment to progress in Meru, stressing transparency and effective governance, despite the surrounding political storm.
Her legal counsel, Elias Mutuma, staunchly defended her right to remain in office, citing a court order by Justice Bahati Mwamuye that blocked the installation of Mwangaza’s deputy, Mutuma M’Ethingia, as governor.
The order also stalled the gazettement of the Senate’s resolution to remove her, allowing Mwangaza to leverage the legal ambiguity in her favor.
Mutuma disclosed he had taken measures to ensure compliance with the court’s directive, sending official notices to Chief Justice Martha Koome and local security leaders, emphasizing that no legal grounds existed to swear in M’Ethingia.
Heightened security surrounded the county headquarters after Mwangaza’s return, with anti-riot and plainclothes police officers positioned to prevent potential clashes between her supporters and those backing her deputy.
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County police commander Steve Oloo confirmed that the increased security was in place to uphold the court order, securing Mwangaza’s position until a judicial resolution is reached.
Amidst the legal uncertainty, Mwangaza’s resilient stance was evident as she took to social media, proudly reiterating her slogan, “Kaende kaende, kabati kabati,” symbolizing her steadfastness.
The legal confrontation over Mwangaza’s impeachment raises critical constitutional questions regarding power succession in county governments.
Article 182 of the Kenyan Constitution states that a deputy governor assumes office if a governor is impeached.
However, the legal process and the court’s suspension have complicated this transition, leaving M’Ethingia’s succession in limbo.
If the deputy governor cannot take over, the county assembly speaker would step in as acting governor until fresh elections occur within sixty days, though this process is currently on hold pending the court’s decision.
With the situation in Meru remaining volatile, all eyes are now on the judiciary as it deliberates the Senate’s ruling and the future of Mwangaza’s administration.
For now, Meru County remains on edge, navigating the intersecting uncertainties of legal battles and political intrigue.
Political Showdown in Meru: Kawira Mwangaza Returns to Work Despite Impeachment, Sparks Outrage
