Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has launched the Umoja na Maendeleo Party (UMP), marking her return to active politics after her dramatic impeachment.
Speaking at her home in Ntumburi, Buuri constituency, Mwangaza expressed confidence that UMP would be a formidable force in the 2027 General Election.
“We will have candidates in every by-election and across the country in 2027. We’re not here to play,” said Mwangaza, who now serves as the party leader. The party was previously under former Embu Governor Martin Wambora.
The embattled former county boss claimed that her political woes stemmed from not having a party during her tenure.
“I believe I was impeached through a phone call, not through justice. But I’m still strong. Like when they killed Jesus and thought they’d won, my gospel continues,” she said defiantly.
She accused 70 male leaders of plotting her downfall as early as her first month in office. “They couldn’t stomach that I had defeated them at the ballot,” she added.
Mwangaza now vows to reclaim her gubernatorial seat through a court ruling or by contesting in 2027, depending on the court’s verdict on her eligibility.
The UMP, she said, will champion the cause of low-income earners and support youth leaders without focusing on their financial capabilities.
“Many young people have leadership in them, but lack campaign money. We will support them.”
Highlighting her development record, Mwangaza cited the construction of three dams, 40 boreholes, and strict supervision of public works to avoid wastage.
Though she refrained from declaring allegiance to either President William Ruto or DP Rigathi Gachagua, she hinted at a shift in Meru politics, urging voters to reject leaders who orchestrated her ouster.
“We want to Skiza, yes. But we also want to see development,” she said.
