The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has received a major legal victory as the High Court upheld orders preventing her removal from office.
Justice Bahati Mwamuye, sitting at the Milimani Law Courts, confirmed that Kawira had met the necessary criteria, asserting that failing to extend the interim orders would render her case meaningless.
The judge, who had initially issued the ex parte orders on August 21, 2024, extended them for an additional 120 days, allowing Kawira to remain in office for the duration. Mwamuye also stated that the case could be resolved before the 120-day period ends.
The Senate had requested the court to dismiss the orders, arguing they interfered with its constitutional responsibilities. The Senate also contended that Kawira had filed the lawsuit against the wrong party, claiming that the proper defendant should have been the Senate rather than the Speaker, who has no voting power in such matters.
However, Justice Mwamuye noted that the substantive issues raised by the Senate would be addressed during the main hearing. The judge emphasized that not confirming the orders could lead to a complicated succession process, which would be difficult to reverse if Kawira’s petition is ultimately successful.
The court further highlighted the public interest in ensuring that the legal proceedings are not disrupted, especially considering the potential financial and administrative impact on Meru County. The judge concluded that it was in the public’s best interest for the current orders to remain in effect pending the final determination of the case.
