The impeachment of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has ignited a storm of reactions on social media, with Kenyans from all walks of life weighing in on the controversial decision.
The Senate, on August 8, 2024, upheld the Meru County Assembly’s decision to impeach Mwangaza for the third time, a move that has sparked widespread debate across the nation.
Governor Mwangaza faced three serious charges: gross violation of the constitution, gross misconduct, and abuse of office. In a closely watched Senate session, 26 senators voted to uphold the first charge, while 14 abstained and four voted in her favor.
The second charge saw 26 votes for impeachment, two against, and 14 abstentions. On the third charge, 27 senators backed the accusation of abuse of office, with one vote against and 14 abstentions.
This latest political drama has once again thrust Mwangaza into the spotlight, with many Kenyans taking to social media to express their views.
Supporters of the impeachment argue that the Senate’s decision was a necessary step to maintain integrity in leadership.
However, not everyone is convinced of the Senate’s impartiality. Some Kenyans believe the impeachment was driven more by political maneuvering than genuine concerns about governance.
Some Kenyans have argued that it is still not yet over for Mwangaza since she can proceeds to the courts and she can be reinstated back.
Mwangaza, who has been a polarizing figure since her election in August 2022, denied all the charges during the Senate trial.
She detailed her efforts to mend relationships with local leaders following her first impeachment attempt in 2023, highlighting her attempts to make amends by apologizing to those she might have wronged across Meru County.
Despite her efforts to rebuild relationships, the Senate’s decision effectively ends her tenure as Meru Governor.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, announcing the verdict, declared, “The Senate has resolved to remove from office by impeachment Hon. Kawira Mwangaza, the Governor of Meru County, and the governor accordingly ceases to hold office.”
Kenyans remain divided on the implications of Mwangaza’s impeachment, with some viewing it as a victory for accountability, while others see it as a troubling sign of political vendettas in Kenya’s governance.
By Kenyans