- by Masivuye Mzimkhulu
- on 14 Aug, 2024
Introduction: The Senate Schedules Special Session
The Senate has arranged a special sitting for Wednesday, August 14, to address the pressing matter of the impeachment of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza. This session marks the third attempt to unseat the embattled governor, who has faced relentless challenges throughout her term. Political analysts expect a heated debate, especially with discussions about potentially dissolving the entire county government. Such a move could necessitate fresh elections, putting Meru residents back at the polls.
Context of Previous Impeachment Attempts
Governor Mwangaza’s political journey has been fraught with numerous threats of impeachment. Remarkably, she has managed to retain her position despite two prior impeachment motions. However, this time, the stakes seem significantly higher. The county assembly's persistent efforts to remove her have intensified, culminating in a recent vote where 49 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) supported her impeachment. They accused her of gross constitutional violations, misconduct, and abuse of office—charges she vehemently denies.
Details of the Impeachment Motion
Deputy Majority Leader Zipporah Kinya introduced the impeachment motion, listing three primary allegations against Mwangaza. Even as Mwangaza continues to deny these charges, the support for her impeachment within the county assembly seems substantial. Of 69 MCAs, 49 voted for her removal, while 17 opposed the motion, and three abstained. This division within the county’s political arena underscores the contentious nature of Mwangaza’s tenure.
Underlying Motives
The recurring impeachment attempts against Mwangaza raise questions about the underlying motivations. Some observers argue that these moves are driven more by political maneuvering than genuine legal concerns. The county assembly's relentless pursuit of her ouster suggests that political dynamics, rather than solid legal grounds, are at play. This notion gains traction considering that this is the fifth attempt to remove her from office since she assumed the role.
The Senate's Role: Legal and Political Responsibilities
The Senate’s responsibility in this scenario is pivotal. According to Article 181 of the Constitution and Section 33 of the County Governments Act, it falls upon the Senate to investigate the allegations against the governor. A special committee of eleven senators may be established to handle this investigation, following which the Senate will cast a vote to determine if the charges are substantiated.
If a majority of senators support the impeachment, Governor Mwangaza will be immediately removed from office. Conversely, if the Senate dismisses the charges, the Meru County Assembly will be informed, and Mwangaza will continue her tenure—until faced with the next challenge.
Looking Back: Previous Senate Decisions
Governor Mwangaza’s last impeachment attempt saw the Senate overwhelmingly dismiss the charges against her. During those proceedings, senators across party lines voted in her favor, citing a lack of evidence. Even with serious accusations like misappropriation of county resources, nepotism, and illegal appointments, the Senate found no substantial proof to uphold the charges. The then-Senate Speaker Amason Kingi declared that none of the allegations were substantiated, allowing Mwangaza to remain in office. However, this did little to decrease the political friction in Meru, with MCAs continuing their campaign to remove her.
Current Political Climate
As the Senate prepares for the upcoming session, the political atmosphere remains charged. Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has already voiced concerns over the process. In a recent television appearance, Olekina suggested that the ongoing conflict in Meru might be more about political rivalry than actual legal breaches. He argued that in Kenya, impeachment cases are often politically motivated, raising doubts about the impartiality of the proceedings.
Future Implications: A Turning Point for Governor Mwangaza
The upcoming Senate session could be a significant turning point for Governor Mwangaza. Whether she manages to escape impeachment once again or faces removal depends not only on the evidence but also on the broader political dynamics at play. The outcome of this special session could reshape the political landscape in Meru, possibly even leading to the dissolution of the county government. If that happens, Meru residents will have to prepare for fresh elections, adding another layer to the ongoing political drama in the region.
In conclusion, the Senate’s decision on Wednesday will be closely watched by political observers, residents of Meru, and beyond. This high-stakes political drama continues to unfold, offering a complex mix of legal scrutiny and political maneuvering that encapsulates the challenges of governance in contemporary Kenya.