Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has accused male politicians of orchestrating her removal from office, claiming she was targeted due to her gender. In a statement posted online, Mwangaza asserted that she faced relentless opposition from leaders unwilling to accept women in positions of power.
She argued that her impeachment was not a reflection of the people's will but rather a calculated move by her political rivals in collaboration with the National Government to ensure her exit.
"Today, I break my silence to address the grave injustices I have faced as a woman leader in a deeply patriarchal society," she stated.
"My impeachment was not a reflection of my performance or integrity but a calculated move by male chauvinists, political competitors, and for political expediency, a complicit National Government willing to silence a woman who dared to lead."
Mwangaza pointed out that her detractors appeared triumphant during the swearing-in ceremony of new governor Isaac Mutuma, indicating that the process was designed to uphold male dominance in Meru County leadership.
"It is a sad reality that in 2025, women leaders are still subjected to systemic discrimination, harassment, and exclusion. My case is a stark reminder of the barriers women face in politics and the lengths to which some will go to maintain the status quo," she added.
Despite her removal, Mwangaza vowed to pursue all legal avenues available to challenge what she considers an unjust process. She also urged her supporters to hold leaders accountable and demand transparency in governance.
Mwangaza's tenure has been marred by conflicts with the Meru County Assembly, which expressed dissatisfaction with her leadership. The MCAs made three consecutive attempts to impeach her, with the former governor fighting each bid to remain in office.
However, the battle ended when the High Court upheld her impeachment, ruling that the process was constitutional.
“The amended petition dated December 23, 2024, has not met the required legal threshold for this court to disturb the decision of the Senate,” Judge Bahati Mwamuye ruled, dismissing Mwangaza’s petition.