Impeachment motion against embattled governor Mwangaza kick off

Meru Members of County Assembly (MCAs) kicked off the debate on the impeachment motion against governor Kawira Mwangaza today morning.

Governor Mwangaza however declined to appear and through her lawyer Elias Mutuma claimed the reintroduction of the impeachment motion to be in contempt of court.

She threatened to sue the speaker and assembly if it continues with the impeachment motion.

Lawyer Mutuma in a letter addressed to Speaker Ayub Bundi said the assembly standing orders prohibit the MCAs from dealing with any matter that is before the court.

He said some of the weighty matters that are to be determined by the court are “Whether in exercise of its powers under article 181(1) of the Constitution and section 33 of the County Government Act the County Assembly can commence impeachment proceedings before the lapse of twenty-four months after the election of the Governor.”

The lawyer adds that the court is also yet to clarify if the impeachment proceedings can be initiated more than once during the term of an elected governor.

He warned the assembly against proceeding with the motion adding that the court is also yet to determine “whether the impeachment motion for a duly elected Governor can be initiated shortly after elections and or within three months upon assumption of office.”

“Proceeding with the impeachment process would amount to ingeniously perpetuating the very mischief meant to be cured by the conservatory orders of the honorable court,” he said.

“Proceeding with the same shall be deemed as contempt of court which shall attract the appropriate legal action against any contemnors who shall be held personally liable.” he added.

The governor is accused of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

The matter is set for hearing on January 25, 2023.