Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza’s impeachment has been upheld, sealing a major political setback for the embattled leader.
Delivering his ruling on Friday, March 14, Justice Bahati Mwamuye affirmed the Senate’s resolution to remove Mwangaza from office, following her impeachment by the Meru County Assembly over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and constitutional violations.
In his verdict, Mwamuye stated that the Senate had adhered to constitutional guidelines throughout the impeachment process. He agreed with the Senate’s findings and dismissed Mwangaza’s petition, which had claimed that the process was chaotic and flawed, citing a lack of substantial evidence to support her claims.
“The petitioner has failed to show that the Senate’s interpretation of the law and facts was so fundamentally flawed that no reasonable tribunal would have reached the same decision,” Mwamuye ruled.
With this decision, Mwangaza’s legal struggle to reclaim her governorship has hit a major roadblock. However, she still has the option to challenge the ruling in higher courts in a bid to salvage her political future.
Before the judgment, Mwangaza remained optimistic that the court would rule in her favor, accusing political figures within Meru County of working against her out of fear of her influence. She had also declared her intention to run for office in the 2027 General Election, though this latest development casts uncertainty over her plans.
In the wake of her removal, Deputy Governor Rev. Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia is now expected to take over as Meru’s governor for the remainder of the term.
This transition aligns with Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, which ensures that county leadership remains stable and uninterrupted despite the impeachment of a sitting governor.
The ruling comes after Mwamuye had previously issued temporary orders in December 2024, allowing Mwangaza to remain in office for an additional 120 days before the final verdict.
