Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza is set to face her third impeachment trial in two years, as the Senate begins hearings on Monday. According to a Gazette Notice by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, the trial will span two days, taking place on August 19 and 20, 2024, in the Senate Chamber by way of Plenary.

Plenary Session Over Select Committee

The decision to conduct the trial in plenary comes after Senators voted against a motion to establish an 11-member select committee to handle the impeachment case. This plenary session marks the second time Mwangaza will face the entire Senate, following a previous impeachment motion in which she was acquitted of all charges.

Charges Against Governor Mwangaza

Mwangaza’s latest impeachment was initiated by Meru County Assembly Members (MCAs) on August 8, who accused her of gross violations of the constitution, gross misconduct, and abuse of office. The motion, tabled by nominated MCA Zipporah Kinya, alleges that Mwangaza unlawfully revoked the appointment of Virginia Kawira as Secretary of the County Public Service Board, failed to appoint key board members, and refused to implement Assembly recommendations to dismiss County Secretary Kiambi Athiru and Chief of Staff Harrison Gatobu.

Allegations of Unlawful Dismissals

The impeachment motion also accuses Mwangaza of illegally dismissing several key officials, including the CEOs of the County Revenue Board, Liquor Board, Meru Microfinance Corporation, and MEWASS. The MCAs argue that these actions were taken without proper authority, violating specific sections of the Meru County laws.

Debate Over Impeachment Process

Last week, Senators debated whether Mwangaza’s impeachment should be handled by a select committee or the entire Senate. Proponents of the committee approach, like Migori Senator Eddy Oketch and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, argued that a committee would allow for a more in-depth examination of the issues facing Meru County and potentially offer long-term solutions.

However, opponents of the committee route, including Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dhulo and Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, supported the plenary approach, emphasizing that a public trial would provide greater transparency and accountability, allowing the people of Meru to fully understand the proceedings.

Conclusion: Mwangaza Faces a Crucial Trial

As the impeachment hearing begins, Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s political future hangs in the balance. The plenary trial will provide a platform for both the Governor and her accusers to present their cases, with the entire Senate set to make a final decision on whether she will remain in office.