Meru County confronts a critical shift. On March 14, 2025, Justice Bahati Mwamuye upheld the Senate’s decision to impeach Governor Kawira Mwangaza. The ruling, finalized on October 31, 2024, ousted her for gross misconduct, abuse of office, and constitutional violations.
Today, Isaac Mutuma, her former deputy, assumes the governorship at Mwendantu Grounds. This moment closes one chapter and opens another in Meru County’s impeachment saga.
Mutuma’s swearing-in took place at 10:20 a.m. at Mwendantu Grounds, marking the official transition of power. The ceremony drew key political figures, including former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, Cooperatives Principal Secretary Patrick Kilemi, and former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi.
Meanwhile, Mwangaza’s removal came after a prolonged battle with the Meru County Assembly (MCAs). She faced fierce opposition throughout her tenure. In 2023, the MCAs first charged Mwangaza with nepotism and bypassing public participation. The Senate dismissed that effort. Later that year, a second attempt echoed similar claims, but once again, the Senate held firm.
However, in late 2024, a third push succeeded. This time, the MCAs cited constitutional breaches and persistent malfeasance. The Senate approved her removal under Article 181, which allows for the impeachment of a governor on grounds such as gross misconduct and abuse of office.
Unwilling to back down, Mwangaza contested the decision in court. Yet, Justice Mwamuye ruled that the impeachment met constitutional requirements and dismissed her petition for lack of merit.
“The amended petition dated December 23, 2024, has not met the required legal threshold for this court to disturb the decision of the Senate,” Mwamuye stated in his ruling.
With this ruling, Mutuma takes office under Section 182(2) of the Constitution, which requires no election when a governor is removed. However, the transition carries significant weight. The High Court’s decision reinforces the Senate’s role in the impeachment process under Article 181. As a result, it sets a precedent that courts will uphold due process in such cases. This ruling is already shaping Meru’s political landscape.
For Mwangaza, a slim legal avenue remains. She could appeal to the Court of Appeal, possibly arguing a violation of her right to a fair hearing under Article 50. However, given the clarity of Mwamuye’s ruling, her chances appear slim.
On the other hand, Mutuma steps into a high-pressure environment. With three impeachment attempts in two years, the MCAs have demonstrated their readiness to act again if he falters. This puts him under immediate scrutiny.
Beyond Meru, this case raises broader governance questions. The term “gross misconduct” remains vague, allowing for political manipulation. Additionally, lengthy legal battles like this one place a financial burden on taxpayers. In many ways, devolution is struggling under its own legal framework.
Now, Mutuma must unify a divided county and prove his leadership amid this turbulent political climate.
Ultimately, Meru’s story continues to unfold. While Mutuma seeks stability, Mwangaza could still challenge the outcome. At the same time, the precedent set here will likely influence future impeachment cases in Kenya.
For now, one leader exits, another rises, and Meru County braces for what comes next.
