- Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza launches Umoja na Maendeleo Party (UMP).
- Appoints her husband to a senior position in the party.
- Vows to reclaim Meru leadership through courts or 2027 ballot.
- Blames impeachment on lack of political backing and male rivalry.
- UMP to support youth and low-income leaders across Kenya.
Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has officially launched the Umoja na Maendeleo Party (UMP), signalling a political comeback and immediately raising eyebrows by appointing her husband, Murega Baicu, to a senior position within the party’s leadership.
Speaking from her home in Ntumburi, Buuri constituency, Mwangaza announced that the party, previously under former Embu Governor Martin Wambora, is ready to field candidates in every by-election and across all counties in 2027.
“We will have candidates everywhere. We’re not here to play,” she declared.
Mwangaza reiterated that her impeachment was politically motivated, blaming her lack of a party and male-dominated opposition for her ouster.
“I believe I was impeached through a phone call, not justice. Just like when they killed Jesus, my gospel continues,” she said.
She alleged that 70 male leaders conspired against her from the very start of her term, unable to accept that she had beaten them at the ballot.
The former county boss said she plans to reclaim her position either through a court ruling or by running again in 2027, depending on her eligibility.
“I’m not done. If the court allows, I’ll be back to finish what I started,” she vowed.
Mwangaza positioned UMP as a platform for young and low-income leaders, promising to support individuals with leadership potential but lacking campaign resources.
“Many young people are capable leaders, but don’t have money. We will stand with them,” she said.
She also highlighted her development track record, including the construction of three dams, 40 boreholes, and hands-on oversight of public projects.
While avoiding direct allegiance to President William Ruto or DP Rigathi Gachagua, Mwangaza hinted at a shift in Meru politics and called on locals to reject those behind her impeachment.
“We want to Skiza, yes, but we also want development,” she added.
The move to appoint her husband into the new party’s leadership could reignite debate around family influence in public affairs, an issue that was central in her turbulent tenure as governor.
