The scales once again tipped in favor of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza as she survived her second impeachment attempt. In a climactic legislative session, The Senate upheld Governor Kawira’s position in a move that belied political parties during the early hours of Thursday, November 9, 2023.
The impeachment motion presented by Meru MCAs painted a grim picture of Governor Mwangaza’s alleged onslaught of misconduct. She entered a “Not Guilty” plea to all seven charges, each of which which found guilty could have ousted her of her political seat.
“If a majority of all members of the Senate vote to uphold any impeachment charge, the governor shall cease to uphold office.”
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi said.
Charges and Verdict
The votes cast in the legislative session laid bare the division on various charges brought against Governor Kawira. Financial mismanagement and nepotism faced strong opposition, with 42 nays against the 5 yays for each accusation. Allegations of bullying, vilification, and demeaning of other leaders garnered 44 nays, overpowering the 3 yays in favor. The charge of illegal appointment and usurpation of statutory powers saw a closer split, with 20 yays and 27 nays.
Contempt of court faced a similar fate, with 44 nays dominating the 3 yays. Illegally naming a public road after her husband saw 43 nays against 4 yays. Contempt of the assembly witnessed 37 nays triumphing over the 10 yays. The resounding “nay” from the majority on each charge served as a vindication for the embattled governor, echoing their belief in her innocence and challenging the credibility of the accusations.
“The result of the division indicate that the senate has not upheld any of the impeachment charges… The senate has failed to remove from office by impeachment Honourable Kawira Mwangaza, Governor of Meru County, and the Governor accordingly, continues to hold office.”
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi said.
The Governor Moved to Tears
During her impeachment hearing, Governor Mwangaza was twice reduced to tears. The first time was when she was asked to repeat Tigania East MP Mpuru Aburu’s despicable sexual remarks against her. Senator Ledama Ole Kina termed the MP’s statement as “uncouth and uncivilized.” But, her second time was happy tears following her vindication.
By BNN