Meru MCAs move to impeach Governor Mwangaza’s Cabinet as court set to rule on her fate

Meru County MCAs have filed impeachment and censure motions against eight County Executive Committee Members (CECM) serving under Governor Kawira Mwangaza.

The officials targeted for impeachment are; County Secretary Dr. Kiambi Atheru, Ibrahim Mutwiri (Finance), Thurania Ithana (Roads), Benjamin Mungania (Youth and Sports) and Dickson Munene (Legal Affairs).

Jackson Muthamia (Water), Yusuf Kithure (Education) and Harriet Makena (Trade) have been targeted under censure motions.

The motions were tabled by several Meru County MCAs, who cited gross misconduct, abuse office and incompetence as grounds for their actions.  

Other accusations include failure to attend County Assembly sessions and addressing critical issues within their ministries, raising concerns and questions among residents about the county's performance.

The ward representatives have vowed to continue with proceedings until there is accountability in the use of county funds and the implementation of government duties.

The development comes as the High Court is expected to deliver a ruling on Friday regarding Governor Mwangaza’s petition on whether she will remain in office after the Senate’s decision to impeach her in August 2024.

On the first charge of gross violation of the Constitution and other laws, the Senate found Kawira guilty, with 26 Senators voting to confirm the charge, 4 voting against it, and 14 abstaining.

The second charge followed a similar pattern, with 26 Senators voting in favour, 2 opposing, and 14 abstaining. The third charge, abuse of office, saw 27 Senators voting to confirm the charge, 1 voting against it, and 14 abstaining.

Mwangaza subsequently sought court orders to allow her to continue serving the people of Meru County.

In December 2024, the High Court extended orders blocking the Senate's decision to impeach her.

High Court Judge Bahati Mwamuye ruled that Mwangaza's application has met the threshold required for the extension of the orders.

"The respondent's notice of motion is dismissed, ex-party orders are confirmed and extended for a period of 120 days and at that time she will continue to serve as the Governor," Justice Mwamuye ruled. 

The court further noted that public interest warrants the extension of the orders, adding that if the orders are not extended then the petition will be rendered nugatory if Mwangaza wins the case.