Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza is set o formally express her intention to join President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, sauce.co.ke can report.
Elected as an independent candidate, Governor Mwangaza has been a supporter of the Kenya Kwanza administration. Despite surviving two impeachment attempts at the Senate, she has maintained her political stance.
On Wednesday, Governor Mwangaza will lead her supporters in pledging allegiance to the ruling party at the Hustler Centre. In a statement released by the UDA party, it was confirmed that the governor will declare her intent to join the political outfit.
This announcement comes after months of speculation surrounding her potential move to UDA ahead of the 2027 elections. However, it’s important to note that Wednesday’s event will signify her intention to join UDA in the future, rather than an immediate defection.
It’s worth mentioning that the law prohibits governors elected as independents from joining any political party during their tenure, as it could result in legal complications and potentially lead to the loss of their seat.
Governor Mwangaza has faced opposition from various political figures in her county since her election, leading to two failed impeachment motions. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has attempted to mediate conflicts in Meru, engaging with political leaders in efforts to resolve disputes.
Recently, tensions escalated as county MCAs targeted Governor Mwangaza’s flagship project, ‘One Cow, One Needy Family,’ which received criticism for alleged mismanagement and lack of transparency. The Meru County Assembly endorsed a report by the Sectoral Committee on Agriculture and Livestock, effectively halting funding for the program in the next financial year.
Chairman of the agriculture committee, Ken Naibae, highlighted concerns regarding the program’s implementation, citing minimal monitoring and supervision of dairy cows, along with the absence of a policy framework.
