Written By Lisa Murimi
Meru County’s political landscape saw another twist as Zipporah Kinya, Member of County Assembly (MCA), withdrew the latest impeachment motion against Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
This marked the fourth attempt to remove the embattled county chief from office amidst ongoing political disagreements.
The motion’s withdrawal followed the Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders’ refusal to mediate after a court referred the case to them.
The elders stated they could not intervene in political matters, emphasizing their detachment from politics.
“This is politics and it entails a lot, those who want to politic let them not involve Njuri Ncheke,” the elders declared.
They reiterated their role in resolving other disputes but maintained that political issues were beyond their jurisdiction. “We are not part of politics! The Meru community is ours, but we shall not be involved in the politics,” they added.
The court’s referral to Njuri Ncheke on Monday followed President William Ruto’s guidance, urging regional leaders to address the political infighting.
“Njuri Ncheke Supreme Council of Ameru Elders are hereby ordered to submit their resolution or lack of it on the dispute between the parties herein as directed by the President of the Republic of Kenya not later than three weeks from today,” the Meru High Court ordered.
Governor Mwangaza’s case may not be the last to be referred to a Council of Elders for resolution.
Supreme Court Judge Smokin Wanjala recently advocated for Alternative Justice Systems, citing their efficacy in conflict resolution compared to the formal justice system, which primarily delivers judgments.
This move aims to reduce the backlog of cases piling up in courts across the country, potentially offering a more collaborative approach to justice.
