In a significant political shift, Reverend Isaac Mutuma M’Ethangia has been officially sworn in as the new governor of Meru County following the impeachment of his predecessor, Kawira Mwangaza. M’Ethangia’s inauguration marks a new chapter for the county, but it also comes at a time of heightened political tension, as Governor Mwangaza continues to contest her ouster.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday 17th March 2025 at the Meru County Assembly, where Reverend M’Ethangia took the oath of office, promising to work for the development and well-being of the people of Meru. As a religious leader with a deep connection to the local community, M’Ethangia has pledged to bring stability, accountability, and a renewed focus on the region’s economic development.
His appointment follows the controversial impeachment of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, who was removed from office after a Senate upheld the findings of a previous impeachment motion. Mwangaza’s ouster, based on allegations of misconduct and poor governance, has shaken the political landscape in Meru, with her supporters and critics alike expressing differing views on the legality and fairness of the process.
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In response to the High Court’s decision on March 6, 2025, which upheld her impeachment, Governor Mwangaza has vowed to continue her fight. She announced her decision to appeal the ruling, signaling her refusal to accept the court’s verdict. Mwangaza, however, has taken her political battles beyond the courtroom. In a bold move, she revealed that she would be quitting the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the political party she was affiliated with, and is planning to launch her own political party next week.
Impeached Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza quits UDA; plans to launch a new party next week; she has appealed High Court ruling upholding her ouster. pic.twitter.com/LckTLMsamH
— The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) March 17, 2025
Her decision to break away from the UDA is a significant one, given her previously strong association with the party and its leadership. Mwangaza’s departure from UDA is expected to stir the political waters in Meru and beyond, with many speculating about the direction her new party will take. The emergence of a new political party under her leadership could further fragment the region’s political scene, especially as she appeals the decision that led to her ouster.
The political developments in Meru are being closely watched, not just within the county but also at the national level. Governor Mwangaza’s legal battle, her resignation from UDA, and the formation of her new political vehicle will have major implications for the upcoming elections and political alliances. As she continues to rally her supporters, her stance could influence the broader political narrative in Kenya, especially in light of the current bipartisan cooperation being explored at the national level.
Reverend M’Ethangia’s ascension to the governorship comes with its own set of challenges. The new governor will need to navigate a fractured political environment and work to heal divisions within Meru’s political community. His leadership will be scrutinized as he strives to steer the county toward development and prosperity amidst a backdrop of political uncertainty.
As the dust settles on the turbulent political battle in Meru, it remains to be seen how the new political dynamics will shape the future of the region. Reverend Isaac Mutuma M’Ethangia faces the dual task of governing a county in transition while also dealing with the reverberations of a political conflict that could have far-reaching consequences for the broader political landscape in Kenya.
