Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has asked President William Ruto to initiate the process of suspending the Meru County Government.

This follows Thursday’s developments which saw Members of the Meru County Assembly (MCAs) vote to impeach Governor Kawira Mwangaza.

On Thursday, August 8, 2024, Meru MCAs voted to impeach Mwangaza on allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office among others.

49 out of 67 members voted for her ouster while 17 voted to retain her. Three MCAs were absent during the session.

This is the third time Mwangaza is being kicked out by the MCAs since she was elected in 2022.

According to Khalwale, the leadership in Meru is no longer untenable, and a fresh election should be called for the governorship position and the MCAs.

“The impeachment of the governor of Meru must now invite the president to step in as provided for under Article 192 of the Constitution of Kenya. Namely, initiate the process of suspension of this county government that will eventually pave the way for fresh elections for both the governor and MCAs,” Khalwale said.

According to Article 192 of the Kenyan Constitution, the President may suspend a county government in an emergency arising out of internal conflict or war or in any other exceptional circumstances.

“A county government shall not be suspended under clause (1) (b) unless an independent commission of inquiry has investigated allegations against the county government, the President is satisfied that the allegations are justified and the Senate has authorised the suspension,” Article 192 reads in part.

“During a suspension under this Article, arrangements shall be made for the performance of the functions of a county government in accordance with an Act of Parliament. The Senate may at any time terminate the suspension. A suspension under this Article shall not extend beyond a period of ninety days.”

The call by Khalwale comes even as Mwangaza awaits her fate with the Senate, which could save her for a third time or kick her out.

In case she is impeached by the Senate, Mwangaza’s deputy will serve as the governor for the remainder of the term until 2027.