Silverio Omari
Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has been granted a reprieve after the High Court extended orders that block the Senate’s decision to impeach her. High Court Judge Bahati Mwamuye ruled on Wednesday that Mwangaza’s application met the necessary criteria for the extension of the orders.
“The respondent’s notice of motion is dismissed, and the ex-parte orders are confirmed and extended for 120 days. During this period, she will continue to serve as the Governor,” Justice Mwamuye stated.
The court further emphasized that the public interest justifies the extension of the orders, noting that without the extension, Mwangaza’s petition would be rendered ineffective should she win the case. The court was informed that Mwangaza would suffer prejudice, and the petition would become a mere academic exercise.
As a result, the case will proceed to a full hearing, with the matter scheduled for mention on December 20.
Mwangaza had previously faced her third impeachment attempt on August 21 after a controversial late-night voting session at the Senate upheld all three charges against her.
On the first charge, gross violation of the Constitution and other laws, the Senate found Mwangaza guilty, with 26 Senators voting in favor, 4 against, and 14 abstaining. The second charge followed a similar pattern, with 26 Senators supporting, 2 opposing, and 14 abstaining. The third charge, abuse of office, saw 27 Senators voting to confirm the charge, 1 voting against it, and 14 abstaining.
Dj Vnyash
