- Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has joined President Ruto’s UDA party
- Kawira, who recently faced impeachment, took the party’s oath yesterday at its headquarters in Nairobi
- Mwangaza noted that she was elected Meru governor in 2022 as an independent candidate, and vowed to defend the seat under UDA in 2027
Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has made a strategic political move just months after facing an impeachment battle.
The governor, facing a tumultuous period in office, announced her allegiance to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, signaling a significant shift in her political trajectory.
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The announcement, made at the UDA headquarters in Nairobi, comes as a surprise to many, considering Mwangaza’s previous stances as an independent candidate.
However, she expressed confidence in her decision, stating her intention to defend her governor seat on the UDA ticket in the upcoming 2027 elections.
Addressing the press alongside UDA officials, including Secretary General Cleophas Malala, Mwangaza emphasized the party’s accommodating stance towards women and urged other female leaders to consider joining UDA.
She also extended an olive branch to Members of County Assembly (MCAs) from Meru, calling for collaborative efforts to improve the lives of residents.
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Mwangaza’s move follows closely on the heels of another prominent political defection.
Silas Jakakimba, a former aide to Raila Odinga, recently switched allegiance from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to UDA, pledging support to President William Ruto.
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Jakakimba’s departure from ODM, after serving alongside Odinga for nearly 16 years, underscores the shifting dynamics within Kenya’s political landscape.
In response to these developments, UDA has unveiled an extensive schedule for grassroots elections, indicating a concerted effort to strengthen its organizational structure in preparation for future electoral battles.
The party’s National Steering Committee, chaired by President William Ruto, has nominated key personnel for the National Elections Board and the Disputes Resolutions Committee, signaling UDA’s commitment to transparent and fair internal processes.
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Meanwhile, back in Meru, Governor Mwangaza has weathered a storm of impeachment attempts.
Facing seven charges brought forth by the County Assembly, including allegations of misuse of public resources and nepotism, Mwangaza mounted a spirited defense before the Senate.
In a late-night session last year, senators acquitted her of all charges, delivering a resounding victory for the embattled governor.
The Senate’s decision to exonerate Mwangaza reflects a broader political landscape characterized by intense power struggles and gender dynamics.
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Mwangaza, in her closing submission, appealed to senators to see beyond the allegations, portraying her ordeal as a product of vilification.
Her survival of the impeachment trial reaffirmed her mandate as the duly elected leader of Meru County, albeit with renewed challenges.
