The senate has approved a motion to alter its calendar to listen to the impeachment motion against Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza. 

Senate Majority leader Aaron Cheruiyot moved the motion before the House, seeking to extend the recess until September 17, 2024.

The senate was scheduled to resume regular sessions on September 3, 2024.

The majority leader argued that while the impeachment motion disrupted their schedule, legislators were still required to take a break to complete some long-overdue work.

He also explained that members needed time to engage with their constituents in order to determine what was working and what needed to be improved.

"Our recess has been interrupted. It's very important because there is work that we do. In fact the committee takes recess to expedite work that is long standing before them, some petitions/bills, and also members find time to work with their constituents," he said.

Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo supported the motion, stating that the impeachment motion was of national importance and must be addressed.

“It's important that we know what is before us is of national interest such as the governor's impeachment and it's key that we take time and make a definitive decision over this issue," Madzayo said. 

The senators unanimously voted in support of the motion, with Senate speaker Amason Kingi making the announcement. 

“That, notwithstanding the Resolution of the Senate made on February 15, 2024 (approval of the Senate Calendar), pursuant to Standing Order 32 (4), the Senate resolves to extend the recess so as to resume Regular Sittings on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, and that the Senate Calendar (Regular Sessions) for the Third Session, 2024, be altered accordingly,” Kingi noted. 

The senate will hold special sittings for two days (August 19 and August 20) to hear Mwangaza’s impeachment motion which was moved by MCA Zipporah Kinya.

In the motion, Kinya accuses the governor of gross violation of the constitution, gross misconduct and abuse of office.