Meru County’s political landscape is once again in turmoil as a faction of MPs and Senators call for the immediate swearing-in of Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma, citing that Governor Kawira Mwangaza is illegally occupying the seat after her impeachment by the County Assembly and the Senate.
However, the situation has been complicated by a ruling from the High Court in Nairobi, which has temporarily reinstated Mwangaza while her legal challenge to the impeachment is pending.
Governor Kawira Mwangaza was impeached by the Meru County Assembly in late 2024, following allegations of misconduct and abuse of office.
The impeachment was subsequently upheld by the Senate, setting the stage for Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma to assume the office of governor, according to the Constitution.
However, the leadership transition has been stalled after Mwangaza filed a legal petition, arguing that her impeachment was politically motivated.
In December 2024, Justice Bahati Mwamuye of the High Court granted Mwangaza a temporary reprieve, ruling that she be reinstated for 120 days pending the determination of her lawsuit.
This ruling has allowed Mwangaza to remain in office, leaving Meru’s leadership in a state of uncertainty.
Despite this, several MPs and Senators from Meru County have strongly backed Isaac Mutuma’s swearing-in, arguing that Mwangaza’s continued stay in office is unconstitutional.
According to them, once the impeachment process is completed, the deputy governor must assume the role of governor without delay.
“I believe the law is clear. When a governor is impeached by both the County Assembly and the Senate, the deputy governor must take over,” said Meru Senator.
“The people of Meru deserve leadership and clarity, and that is why we are calling for Isaac Mutuma to be sworn in immediately. The court’s temporary ruling does not negate the constitutional process.”
Igembe South MP John Mwirigi echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the political uncertainty in Meru is detrimental to the county’s development.
“We cannot have a situation where the people of Meru are left without a clear leader,” Mwirigi said.
“The impeachment was lawful, and there is no reason why Mutuma should not assume office as governor now. We need leadership that can focus on development, not endless political battles.”
Similarly, former Tigania East MP, who remains influential in the region, pointed out that Mwangaza’s continued tenure was eroding public confidence in the county government.
“The people of Meru are frustrated by the lack of effective leadership. The Constitution and legal precedents are clear—once the governor is impeached, the deputy takes over,” one of the MPs said.
“Mutuma must step in and bring stability to Meru County.”
Despite the mounting calls for his swearing-in, Mutuma himself has largely remained silent on the matter, reportedly waiting for the court’s final decision on Mwangaza’s impeachment.
However, insiders close to him suggest that he is cautious about stepping into the role amid the ongoing legal battles and the potential political fallout.
Meru residents are also beginning to voice their concerns over the political gridlock. Development projects, including infrastructure, healthcare, and education, are said to be on hold due to the leadership vacuum, further aggravating frustrations within the community.
“There’s a real need for a stable and effective government here in Meru,” said one local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “We need leadership that focuses on our needs, not political drama. It’s time for Mutuma to lead.”
As the legal process drags on, the political standoff in Meru appears far from over. Governor Mwangaza’s legal team is preparing to challenge the Senate’s decision in court, while political leaders continue to pressure for a swift resolution.
With the High Court’s temporary order reinstating Mwangaza set to expire in April 2025, all eyes are now on the judiciary to determine whether Meru will see a new leadership transition, or whether Mwangaza will continue her legal fight to regain her seat permanently.
The unfolding political drama is sure to have long-lasting consequences for Meru’s governance, with the people of the county eagerly awaiting a resolution.
