Reprieve for Meru governor Kawira after High Court extend orders barring her ouster

Reprieve for embattled Meru governor Kawria Mwangaza after the High Court ruled that she will continue to hold office and extended orders blocking her ouster pending hearing and determination of the case.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye sitting at the Milimani Law Courts, Nairobi said Kawira has satisfied the court that the case will be rendered useless if the interim orders are not confirmed.

In confirming and extending the ex-parte orders he had issued on August 21 this year, he said that the orders will be in place for a period of 120 days.

“…in that time, the petitioner will continue to serve as governor with a provision that the judgement in this case may be rendered before lapse of the 120 days.” The judge ruled.

The Senate had asked the court to set aside the orders saying it has far reaching implications that encroach on their mandate. They also faulted Kawira for suing the wrong party saying she ought to have sued the Senate and not the Speaker.

The speaker they said has no vote in matter of the house.

But the Judge in confirming the orders said some of the issues raised will be dealt with during the main hearing of the matter.

“Not confirming the orders would mean there will be a succession in the officer of Meru Governor. Those changes will not be easy to undo if Kawira’s petition succeeds.” Justice Mwamuye ruled.

The judge emphasized that prudent use of scarce resources is more relevant in such a case as gubernatorial succession in the county would trigger events and changes that would be funded from the public coffers.

“Public interest in this case favors the continuation and subsistence of the orders issued in August pending determination of the case.” He added.