Meru protests intensify as locals demand governor Mwangaza’s removal

The unrest follows a court decision granting Mwangaza a temporary reprieve after her impeachment by the Senate.

The protesters, who blocked the main road leading to the governor's office, are demanding that Mwangaza vacate her position, asserting that any actions taken by her after the Senate's decision are illegal, null, and void.

The demonstrators have vowed to camp at the county headquarters until Mwangaza yields to their demands and allows her deputy, Isaac Mutuma, to assume the role of governor.

Scenes of unrest were evident across Meru County on Monday, with protests taking place in towns such as Meru Town, Maua, and Nkubu. 

The demonstrators are angered by the Senate's decision to uphold Mwangaza’s impeachment, viewing it as the final blow to her two-year tenure.

Dominic Kirimi stated, “We see this as just the beginning. Starting tomorrow, at 5 a.m., we will block the office entrance and prevent her from entering. We want Reverend Mutuma to take over as the governor of Meru County.”

Betty Makena expressed frustration, “We have seen that the Senate has impeached Governor Kawira. We consider any budgetary actions she signs as illegal. How can someone who is not our governor sign official documents?”

A recent High Court decision halting the Senate’s decision to remove Mwangaza further fueled local discontent. 

Protesters blocked roads to the county headquarters, lighting bonfires and chanting anti-Mwangaza slogans, prompting the police to use tear gas to disperse the crowds.

Linus Mithika commented, “We know that Kawira is not our governor today. We need clarification on whether the Kenya Gazette is flawed or if the judges are mismanaging Meru’s affairs.”

Paul Kailemia added, “For peace to return to Meru, Mwangaza must step down. Our children need to study well, and the roads and services in Meru require proper management. She must leave.”

As protests are expected to intensify on Tuesday, the locals are demanding that Mwangaza, who failed to survive the third impeachment motion, step down and allow Isaac Mutuma to take over as governor.

Dominic Kirimi concluded, “Security for Kawira Mwangaza should be withdrawn as she is no longer the governor. It should be provided to Reverend Mutuma. We insist—Kawira must go.”