Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza scored a crucial legal win yesterday after the High Court extended conservatory orders suspending her impeachment for an additional 120 days. This extension ensures Mwangaza remains in office as the court prepares to hear her petition challenging the impeachment proceedings.
Justice Bahati Mwamuye, who issued the ruling, upheld the status quo to prevent a gubernatorial succession in Meru County, citing the potential public costs and disruptions that could arise if Mwangaza’s petition ultimately succeeds. The judge emphasized that public interest and prudent use of resources supported maintaining the current orders until the case is resolved.
Initially granted in August, the conservatory orders halted the Senate’s impeachment decision, with the extension now offering Mwangaza additional time to challenge what her legal team argues was an unconstitutional process.
Represented by lawyers Elisha Ongoya and Elias Mutuma, Mwangaza’s team contended that both the Senate and Meru County Assembly had defied a court order barring them from proceeding with the impeachment. They argued that the process violated constitutional safeguards and required judicial intervention.
The ruling underscores the significant legal and public interest issues raised by the case, which Justice Mwamuye deemed necessary for a full hearing.
Political Twist: Meru Governor’s Battle Highlights Senate-County Assembly Power Struggle– Governor Mwangaza’s legal victory not only delays her impeachment but also reignites a broader debate on the balance of power between the Senate and County Assemblies in Kenya’s devolved system of governance. Political analysts suggest the case could set a precedent for how impeachment motions are handled across the country.
