NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi has pulled back the curtain on the political drama that led to the removal of his successor, Kawira Mwangaza.
Speaking to NTV Kenya, Murungi admitted that he was among the architects of her impeachment, but firmly dismissed allegations that her gender played a role.
Instead, he pointed to her leadership style as the root cause.
Kiraitu: We Planned Mwangaza’s OusterVeteran politician Kiraitu Murungi has admitted to being part of the group that orchestrated the removal of former Meru govenor Kawira Mwangaza.Says it had nothing to do with the fact that Mwangaza is a woman.#NTVTonight @Ben_Kitili
Not About Gender, But Governance
Mwangaza had previously claimed that her removal was fueled by male leaders conspiring against her due to gender bias.
However, Murungi countered that her leadership alienated nearly every political figure in Meru, from Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) to Senators and MPs.
“She was always in a brawl with all leaders, including MCAs, MPs, and even us, the former leadership.
Especially us, the former leadership—she used to mishandle and embarrass us,” Murungi stated.
While Murungi had initially been open to Mwangaza’s leadership, he claims her “arrogance” and inability to work collaboratively with other leaders left them with no choice but to act.
Leadership Gridlock and Development Stalemate
Murungi also accused Mwangaza of failing to drive development in Meru during her two-year tenure, asserting that the county remained stagnant under her leadership.
“That’s when we realized that even if she were given 10 years to lead, she would still be incapable of steering Meru County forward. The county would remain stagnant and in disarray,” he remarked.
His sentiments reflect the broader frustrations that led to her impeachment, with leaders arguing that Mwangaza’s leadership style made it impossible to achieve progress.
Legal Battle Ends, New Governor Takes Over
Mwangaza officially joined the list of impeached governors on March 14 after the High Court upheld the Senate’s decision to remove her from office.
Justice Bahati Mwamuye ruled that the impeachment process followed due process and dismissed her petition, stating it “did not meet the required legal threshold” to overturn the Senate’s decision.
With Mwangaza out, Isaac Mutuma was sworn in as Meru’s new governor on Monday.
Murungi has thrown his support behind Mutuma, expressing confidence that he will foster unity and spearhead development in the county.
