In a dramatic political turn, Governor Anne Mwangaza of Meru County has officially announced her resignation from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), following her recent impeachment. This move marks a significant chapter in her political career, as she reveals plans to establish a new political party aimed at challenging the status quo in Kenya’s political landscape.
Mwangaza, who was controversially impeached by the Meru County Assembly in December 2022, has consistently denied the allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office that led to her ousting. Despite the setback, Mwangaza managed to secure a significant legal victory when the Senate overturned her impeachment in early 2023, reinstating her to office.
In a statement released earlier today, Mwangaza expressed her frustration with the political environment, citing betrayal and a lack of support from her former party, UDA, which is led by President William Ruto. My decision to leave UDA is not one I take lightly, but after being abandoned and humiliated by the same people who should have supported me, it became clear that the values I stand for no longer align with the party’s direction, Mwangaza remarked.
She also condemned the role played by some political figures in her impeachment, accusing them of undermining her leadership and governance in Meru County. The political maneuvering, orchestrated to remove me from office, was not just a personal attack, but an assault on the will of the people who elected me to lead, Mwangaza added.
Mwangaza’s resignation from UDA is seen as a significant blow to the party, especially considering her popularity in the central region and her support base among grassroots voters. The Governor’s defection also signals a growing discontent within the ruling party, particularly among leaders who feel sidelined or mistreated by the central leadership.
Looking forward, Mwangaza revealed her plans to launch a new political party, which she promises will focus on championing the interests of ordinary Kenyans. This new political movement will prioritize integrity, transparency, and accountability in leadership. It will be a party of the people, for the people, she stated.
Mwangaza’s announcement has sparked mixed reactions across the country. Supporters have hailed her courage to stand up against the political elite, while critics argue that her new party may struggle to gain a foothold in an already crowded political arena. Nonetheless, the Governor’s decision to move forward with creating a new political force has set the stage for what could be a major shake-up in Kenya’s political scene.
Political analysts have suggested that Mwangaza’s decision may be a direct response to the increasing dominance of UDA in central Kenya, a region traditionally considered to be a stronghold for President Ruto’s party. By creating her own party, Mwangaza could tap into the disillusionment of voters who feel that their voices are no longer being heard by the current leadership.
Moreover, Mwangaza’s plans have raised questions about her future ambitions, particularly her potential run for higher office. Speculation is rife that she may target the presidency or a key parliamentary seat in the upcoming elections. Should her new party gain significant traction, Mwangaza could present a formidable challenge to the established political dynasties that have long held sway in Kenyan politics.
For now, the political world watches closely as Mwangaza prepares to formally launch her new party. Her decision to break away from UDA and chart her own course reflects the changing tides of Kenya’s political landscape, where individual leaders are increasingly asserting their independence from traditional party structures.
As Mwangaza moves forward with her plans, the question remains: can she successfully build a new political force that resonates with the electorate and challenges the entrenched political machinery, or will she find herself isolated in an increasingly polarized political environment? Only time will tell.
