Isaac Mutuma has officially been sworn in as the new Governor of Meru County, replacing impeached Governor Kawira Mwangaza. The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday at Mwendantu Grounds in Meru, marking a new chapter in the county’s leadership.
Mutuma Takes Over After High Court Upholds Mwangaza’s Impeachment
Mutuma’s inauguration follows a series of legal and political battles that culminated in the High Court upholding Mwangaza’s impeachment. Initially, the Senate voted to remove her from office, a decision that was later challenged and temporarily suspended. However, on March 14, 2025, Justice Bahati Mwamuye ruled that the petition to overturn her removal lacked merit, confirming that Mwangaza had received a fair hearing.
The judge also dismissed her plea to invalidate the gazette notice that officially declared her ouster. With this ruling, the path was cleared for Mutuma to assume the governorship.
Dignitaries Attend Mutuma’s Swearing-In
The swearing-in ceremony attracted key leaders from across the political spectrum. Among those in attendance were Water CS Eric Muga, Cooperatives PS Patrick Kiburi, and Laikipia Deputy Governor Reuben Kamuri, along with other dignitaries. The event signified a transition of power after months of leadership uncertainty in Meru County.
Isaac Mutuma’s Political Journey and Background
Isaac Mutuma was elected Meru Deputy Governor in 2022, running alongside Kawira Mwangaza as an independent candidate. Their victory was a political upset, as they defeated seasoned politicians such as former Governor Kiraitu Murungi and ex-CS Peter Munya.
Before venturing into politics, Mutuma served as a senior officer in the Kenya Prisons Service. He is also a Reverend in the Methodist Church of Kenya, reflecting his strong ties to religious leadership. His academic background includes a Higher Diploma in Forensic Psychology and Criminology from the Kenya Institute of Studies in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from Kenya Methodist University.
Mwangaza’s Impeachment: A Prolonged Political Battle
Mwangaza’s impeachment was the result of multiple charges brought against her. On August 21, 2024, the Senate voted as follows:
- Charge 1 (Gross Violation of the Constitution & Laws): 26 senators voted in favor, 14 abstained, and 4 opposed.
- Charge 2 (Gross Misconduct): 26 senators supported her removal, 2 opposed, and 14 abstained.
- Charge 3 (Abuse of Office): 27 senators upheld the charge, 1 opposed, and 14 abstained.
A significant number of those who abstained were affiliated with Opposition parties.
This marked Mwangaza’s third impeachment attempt since her election in August 2022. While the first impeachment was determined by a Senate committee, the second and third were handled by the full Senate plenary.
What Next for Meru County?
With Mutuma now at the helm, the focus shifts to governance and service delivery in Meru County. His administration is expected to restore stability and address the political divisions that have plagued the county’s leadership. As he assumes office, all eyes will be on how he navigates the challenges ahead and steers Meru toward progress.
