Njuri Ncheke's Split Over Governor Mwangaza's impeachment plot

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In an unexpected turn of events, Meru County’s political landscape has been shaken to its core as the County Assembly prepares to debate the impeachment motion against Governor Kawira Mwangaza for the second time within a year of taking office.

However, what makes this move particularly intriguing is the recent endorsement of the impeachment process by the Council of Elders of the Njuri Ncheke, a group that had traditionally supported the governor.

This surprising development has sparked passionate discussions and deep divisions within the county.

The Impeachment Process

The impeachment motion against Governor Kawira Mwangaza, which is set to be discussed in the County Assembly on October 25, 2023, is a follow-up to the initial motion tabled earlier this year.

The motion was first approved by the Council of Elders of Njuri Ncheke on October 14, 2023, during a ceremony held at Nchiru Shrine, Tigania West. This unexpected decision was met with a mixture of criticism and praise, as Njuri Ncheke elders have historically supported the sitting governor.

Reasons for the Impeachment

The Council of Elders, led by Chairman Linus Kathera, voiced their support for Governor Mwangaza’s removal due to her alleged failure to unite the Ameru community.

Additionally, they criticized her for being preoccupied with the “Okolea” project, which they claim has overlooked the needs of the underprivileged residents.

Former Governor Kiraitu Murungi, current Agriculture Minister Mithika Linturi, Tourism Minister Soipan Tuya, and all nine Members of Parliament from Meru were present at the ceremony.

Bw Murangiri, one of the Njuri Ncheke leaders, announced that Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma would be the fourth governor of Meru. This move underscores the frustration with Governor Mwangaza’s leadership and the desire for change.

Division Among Njuri Ncheke Elders

The support from Njuri Ncheke elders for the impeachment has not been universally accepted within the council.

Elders from Tigania West, Tigania East, and Tigania Central have expressed their dissent, stating that the council’s endorsement was not in line with Njuri Ncheke’s principles. They have also criticized their counterparts for blessing the Members of County Assembly before the impeachment motion.

Elder Adriano Aruyaru, a representative from Tigania West, condemned the endorsement and the fact that women and children were present at the meeting, which he deemed inappropriate for such a significant decision.

Divided Opinions on the Council’s Role

The involvement of Njuri Ncheke elders in the impeachment process has ignited a debate among analysts and experts. Some argue that it is an inappropriate move for the elders, as they have traditionally supported the ruling government.

Others believe that their involvement signals a deeper discontent within the community and a desire for political change.