The Meru County Assembly is set to debate the impeachment of Governor Kawira Mwangaza under heightened security measures.
The heavy police presence, led by North Imenti Sub County Police Commander Aden Ario, is in response to threats of potential violence, including reports that goons intended to invade and torch the premises. Gunshots were reportedly heard overnight as some individuals attempted to breach the assembly, but they were repelled by the police.
Governor Mwangaza is facing impeachment on three grounds: gross violation of the constitution and other laws, gross misconduct, and abuse of office. The motion to impeach her was tabled by Deputy Majority Leader Ziporah Kinya. Currently, only about 20 of the 67 MCAs are said to support the governor.
Previously, Governor Mwangaza sought conservatory orders from a Nairobi high court to halt the impeachment process. However, the initial motion for her removal, which was filed last week, was withdrawn after the mover issued a withdrawal notice. The assembly then debated and ratified the withdrawal.
Speaker of the assembly noted, “This assembly approves the request by the deputy leader of the majority party, Ziporah Kinya, to withdraw the notice of motion for the removal of the office of Governor Kawira Mwangaza by impeachment whose notice was issued on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.”
One of the primary reasons for the withdrawal was that the motion was out of time, as such motions must be debated and sent to the Senate within 10 days of notice. The withdrawal rendered the ongoing court case moot as it lacked a subject matter.
Despite the withdrawal, Deputy Majority Leader Kinya filed a new motion for impeachment the following day. The assembly is now preparing to debate this new motion, amidst the backdrop of intensified security to ensure order and safety during the proceedings. The outcome of this debate will determine Governor Mwangaza’s political fate amidst allegations of constitutional violations and misconduct.
