High Court has suspended the Senate’s resolution to remove Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza from office. The court has also certified the governor’s case as urgent and scheduled a mention hearing for September 17, 2024.
The High Court’s decision comes after Governor Mwangaza filed a petition challenging the Senate’s decision to remove her from the gubernatorial position. The Senate had earlier voted to impeach Mwangaza following allegations of abuse of office and gross misconduct.
In the court ruling, the presiding judge, Justice Beatrice Kemei, stated that the High Court had found merit in the governor’s arguments and deemed the case to be of significant public interest.
“Having reviewed the materials presented by the petitioner, the court is satisfied that there are sufficient grounds to suspend the implementation of the Senate’s resolution. This case raises important constitutional issues that warrant an urgent hearing,” Justice Kemei said.
The judge further ordered the Senate and other respondents to file their responses to the governor’s petition within the next 14 days, in preparation for the mention hearing scheduled for September 17.
“This is a matter of great public importance, and the court is cognizant of the need to provide a timely resolution. We have, therefore, prioritized this case and set a mention date to allow all parties to present their arguments,” the judge added.
The High Court’s decision to suspend the Senate’s removal of Governor Mwangaza has been widely welcomed by her supporters, who have been vocal in their opposition to the impeachment process.
“We are relieved that the court has recognized the urgency and importance of this case. Governor Mwangaza has always maintained her innocence, and we are confident that the truth will prevail,” said Mwangaza’s lead counsel, Nzamba Kitonga.
The Senate, on the other hand, has expressed disappointment with the court’s decision, stating that they stand by their findings and the decision to remove the governor from office.
“The Senate followed due process in investigating the allegations against the governor and made a well-reasoned decision. We believe the court should have allowed the process to continue unimpeded,” said meru resident.
By NationAfrica