Court extends orders suspending Mwangaza's impeachment for 120 days
By Maureen Kinyanjui |
The ruling allows her to continue serving in her capacity as a governor while awaiting the full hearing of the case.
Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza can now breathe a sigh of relief after the High Court on Wednesday extended the conservatory orders that effectively halt her impeachment for a further 120 days.
This decision comes as a significant lifeline for the embattled governor, allowing her to continue serving in her capacity while awaiting the full hearing of the case.
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Delivering the ruling on Wednesday, Justice Bahati Mwamuye said that the leadership vacuum that would result from the impeachment of Mwangaza could cripple the operations of the county.
"Having analysed the issues for determination, it's my overall finding that the petitioner applicant has met the requisite legal threshold for the grant of conservatory orders and for them to be confirmed and extended to the full hearing," he ruled.
The court's decision to uphold the conservatory orders means Mwangaza will remain in office until the case is fully heard and a final judgment is made within the next 120 days.
Mwangaza's impeachment was initially upheld by the Senate on August 21, 2024, following accusations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and violation of the Constitution.
The case has been a contentious issue in the region, with political implications that have raised questions about leadership stability in Meru.
In his ruling, Justice Mwamuye stressed the importance of ensuring that the county's governance functions smoothly, underscoring the potential disruption that an impeachment would cause.
The Senate had asked the court to cancel the orders, arguing that they had serious consequences and interfered with their duties.
They also criticised Mwangaza for suing the wrong party, saying she should have sued the Senate instead of the Speaker, who they pointed out does not have a vote in matters of the House.
However, the Judge upheld the orders, stating that some of the concerns raised would be addressed during the main hearing of the case.
"Not confirming the orders would mean there will be a succession in the office of Meru Governor. Those changes will not be easy to undo if Kawira's petition succeeds," Mwamuye said.
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