The Meru High Court has referred the impeachment motion against Governor Kawira Mwangaza to the Njuri Ncheke, the supreme council of Meru elders.
This decision comes as the third impeachment attempt by Meru Members of County Assembly (MCAs) against the embattled governor, citing gross violations of the Constitution, various national and county laws, and abuse of office.
The court documents reveal that the elders will listen to the disputes raised by both parties on Wednesday, July 31st, and are expected to issue their report within three weeks. The Meru High Court has halted all proceedings related to the impeachment motion until the Njuri Ncheke’s findings are presented.
Through her advocates, Governor Mwangaza expressed confidence in the impartiality and wisdom of the Njuri Ncheke. “I trust that the Njuri Ncheke will handle this matter with the utmost fairness and integrity, reflecting the true spirit of our cultural heritage,” she stated.
The accusations against Governor Mwangaza include gross violations of the Constitution and abuse of office. The MCAs have tabled the impeachment motion for the third time, reflecting persistent political tensions within the county.
However, Mwangaza has consistently attributed the turmoil to political rivals who feel threatened by her leadership. “This is a politically motivated move by my detractors who are unsettled by my commitment to serve the people of Meru with integrity and dedication,” Mwangaza asserted in a previous statement.
The decision to involve the Njuri Ncheke has sparked discussions on the role of traditional institutions in contemporary governance.
Legal expert James Kinyua commented, “The referral of this case to the Njuri Ncheke is a significant acknowledgment of the role of traditional dispute resolution mechanisms in our legal system. It highlights the need for a harmonious coexistence between customary practices and formal legal processes.”
