Kenya, March 15 -- Residents of Maua Town in Meru County poured into the streets on Friday in jubilant celebration following the High Court's decision to uphold the impeachment of Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
The ruling, delivered by Justice Bahati Mwamuye on March 14, marked the end of a prolonged political saga that saw the embattled governor removed from office by the Senate in August 2024.
Crowds gathered in the town center, chanting and waving banners, as news spread that the court had dismissed Mwangaza's petition challenging her ouster.
The Senate had previously found her guilty of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and constitutional violations-charges stemming from accusations by the Meru County Assembly.
The High Court's affirmation of the impeachment process triggered an outpouring of relief and festivity among residents, many of whom had grown critical of her leadership.
"She failed us, and now justice has been served," said Patrick Gikundi, a local resident, echoing sentiments shared by many in the crowd.
The celebrations briefly disrupted traffic as horns blared and vuvuzelas sounded, reflecting the community's approval of the decision.
Mwangaza, who had returned to office temporarily in August 2024 after a court suspension of the Senate's ruling, now faces the finality of her removal, paving the way for Deputy Governor Rev. Isaac Mutuma M'Ethingia to assume leadership.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.