Kawira Mwangaza and Deputy’s Feud Resurfaces: A Look at the New Conflict

The political strife in Meru County has resurfaced, revealing new differences between Governor Kawira Mwangaza and her deputy, Isaac Mutuma. The longstanding disputes between the former pastors turned politicians have reemerged, recalling the breakdown of their working relationship in May last year.

On Wednesday, residents captured the Deputy Governor’s car being transported to Nairobi for repairs. Supporters of the deputy alleged that the move was a covert plot to hinder Mr. Mutuma’s ease of transportation for local visits.

However, Meru County Secretary, Kiambi Atheru, clarified to Taifa Leo that the Deputy Governor’s car had been undergoing repairs in a local Meru workshop and was being sent to Nairobi for additional refurbishment.

“I am awaiting the report from the Director of Vehicle Management to understand what transpired. However, I don’t see anything excessive in sending the car to Nairobi. There are other county vehicles in Nairobi garages,” stated Mr. Atheru.

During the unusual morning incident, the driver was compelled to redirect the car to the Deputy Governor’s official residence.

Mr. Mutuma admitted that the car was confiscated on suspicion of a covert agenda.

“The car was taken to the workshop in December last year, but I was informed that the governor’s office did not authorize the purchase of spare parts. There were specific directives that no funds should be allocated for the repair of my official car. Due to the delay, I decided to fix it using my personal funds,” explained Mr. Mutuma.

He expressed readiness to cover the required Ksh 310,000 for the repairs in Meru.

“I am willing to use my funds because I have been fueling it since June despite it being an official government car. However, when the governor learned that I was ready to fix it with my money, instructions were given to the vehicle management director to take it to Toyota offices in Nairobi,” he added.

Mr. Mutuma claimed that the County Government owes a substantial amount to the car company, leading to the confiscation of several vehicles.

“The decision to send my car to Nairobi was intended to ensure that the vehicle is seized, leaving me without a means of transportation. It’s surprising because the Deputy Governor’s office should not rely on the Governor’s decisions on what I should have, but rather the responsibility of the Salaries and Remuneration Commission,” he remarked.

Mr. Mutuma alleges that this is one of the tactics used by the county leadership to intimidate him since his fallout with the Governor.

On Sunday, Mr. Mutuma claimed that there were plots to force him to resign due to strained relations with his superior.

“I have been told that I will be given money if I resign as Deputy Governor. But I wasn’t elected to be paid to resign,” he stated.

Previously, Governor Mwangaza acknowledged a strained relationship with her deputy, emphasizing an inability to compel reconciliation.