Kawira Mwangaza’s turbulent tenure as Meru Governor has come to an abrupt end, marking a historic moment in Kenyan politics. After serving for two years and seven months, she was officially replaced by her deputy, Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia, who was sworn in on Monday in a grand ceremony. His assumption of office follows Mwangaza’s impeachment, which was upheld by the High Court on March 14, 2025.
Mwangaza’s fall from power was finalized after the court ruled that the Senate had acted constitutionally in her removal, dismissing her claims of irregularities. Justice Bahati Mwamuye affirmed the August 21, 2024, gazette notice that sealed her fate.
Her leadership was constantly at odds with the Meru County Assembly, which initiated her impeachment twice before the final motion succeeded. She was accused of gross violation of the Constitution, gross misconduct, and abuse of office. The Senate overwhelmingly voted in favor of her removal, making her the first governor to be impeached after the 2022 elections.
Mwangaza’s political career has been nothing short of dramatic. After winning the 2022 elections as an independent candidate, she saw her leadership marred by continuous clashes with MCAs. Her tenure saw bold yet controversial decisions, including naming a rehabilitated road after her husband, Murega Baichu, in September 2023. The move sparked public outcry, as the road led to her father-in-law’s compound.
Her journey in politics began in 2013 when she unsuccessfully vied for the Buuri parliamentary seat. The loss left her financially strained, forcing her and her husband to relocate to Ruai, where they sold onions and tomatoes to recover. They later ventured into the media industry, establishing Baite TV, a platform that boosted Mwangaza’s popularity.
In 2017, she was elected Meru Woman Representative before rising to become governor in 2022. Aside from politics, Mwangaza is a bishop at Baite Family Fellowship church.
From an independent political triumph to an impeachment, her story is one for the books, highlighting the delicate balance of power and governance in Kenya’s counties.
