Today, Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza will learn whether the Senate will uphold her impeachment or dismiss the charges against her. She will have the opportunity to present her case before the Senate.
MCAs’ Legal Battle
On Tuesday, Meru MCAs mounted a vigorous legal defense to support their decision to impeach Governor Mwangaza. Lead counsel Mr. Muthomi Thiankolu painted a portrait of a governor resistant to collaboration with other leaders. He argued that Mwangaza’s defiant stance had led to three impeachment motions between November 2022 and October 2023, and urged senators not to intervene, stating, “Something has been terribly wrong in Meru County for a year, and the people deserve better.”
Charges Against Mwangaza
Governor Mwangaza faces multiple charges including misappropriation and misuse of county resources, nepotism, bullying, vilification, illegal appointments, usurpation of statutory powers, contempt of court, and naming a public road after her husband without authorization. Lawyer Marias Maranya contends that the relationship between the governor and Meru’s citizens has irreparably deteriorated.
Witness Testimonies
One witness, Meru Alcoholic Drinks and Liquor Control Board CEO Arimi Paul Mwaki, described being sent on compulsory leave and threatened by Mwangaza’s husband, Baichu Murega, despite a court order allowing his return. Mwaki, along with other officials, was reportedly forcefully removed from the office. Another witness, Assembly Majority Leader Evans Mawira, who also initiated the impeachment motion, detailed the discord between Mwangaza and her deputy, Isaac Mutuma.
Defense Team and Witnesses
Governor Mwangaza is represented by an extensive legal team led by Mr. Elisha Ongoya and Mr. Elias Mutuma. Other members include Mr. Duncan Okubasu, Mr. Robert Mutembei, Ms. Bridah Kimathi, Mr. Batista Mwirigi, Mr. Antony Mwenda, Mr. Collins Mwenda, and Mr. Brianlee Maingi. Her witnesses include herself, Mr. Nicholas Josphat, Mr. Arayaru Adrian, and Mr. Dickson Munene. Ongoya criticized the charges as “resurrected dead matters” and questioned their validity for impeachment.
Senate Proceedings
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna requested clarification on why the impeachment proceedings were based on issues still pending in court. Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi questioned the MCAs’ decision to list the governor as the third respondent in a court application, suggesting it might imply her minimal involvement in human resource matters.
Schedule and Voting
Governor Mwangaza will have four hours to present her evidence, followed by cross-examination and re-examination. After a one-hour lunch break, senators will have a 30-minute session to ask questions. The afternoon will include closing statements by the MCAs and Mwangaza. Debate on the matter will begin at 4:30 PM, with voting to determine whether to uphold the impeachment set to start at 6:30 PM.
