Mwangaza’s lawyers decline request to have governor defend herself in Senate

Lawyers defending Kawira Mwangaza have opted to use an affidavit filed by the Governor at the expense of the governor defending herself before the Senate Committee.

Representing the embattled Governor, Lawyer Manasses Mwangi told the Senate that the Governor’s Counsel would prefer using the affidavit during the impeachment hearing.

In his interjection, the Senate Committee Chairperson Senator Boni Khalwale urged Governor Mwangaza to defend herself in person when ready.

Governor Kawira is expected to take the stand today to defend herself. Meru Chief of Staff Harrison Gatobu is among the key witnesses for the Governor.

Yesterday Mwangaza pleaded not guilty to all charges that informed her impeachment.

The County Assembly has accused Kawira of violating the Constitution 62 times, all committed within 64 days.

Kawira became the first county boss to be impeached barely three months after being sworn in.

All 67 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) present during the impeachment session voted to remove her.

In her opening remarks on Tuesday, Kawira through her lawyer Elias Mutuma said she was a victim of blackmail.