Mwengi Mutuse: The first-time MP challenging the 'big boys'

Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse. [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

Before Tuesday, October 1, Mwengi Mutuse was a relatively low-profile politician, known primarily within his constituency and the corridors of Parliament. 

Today, he is making national headlines as the MP who boldly tabled an impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

In a dramatic turn of events, Mutuse, a first-term MP, has emerged as a central figure in a political storm that could reshape the country’s leadership dynamics. 

His impeachment motion is based on allegations of abuse of office, claims of Gachagua undermining the Constitution, and overstepping his mandate.

Mutuse argues that Gachagua's conduct as Deputy President has been "reckless and detrimental to national unity," accusing him of sowing division within the government and across the country.

So, who is Is Mwengi Mutuse?

Mutuse is the Kibwezi West MP, one of six constituencies in Makueni County.

Elected under the Maendeleo Chap Chap (MCC) Party, an affiliate of the Kenya Kwanza coalition founded by Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, he succeeded Patrick Musimba, who held the seat for a decade.

A little-known politician, Mutuse holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master of Laws from the University of Nairobi and was admitted to the bar in 2018.

His political ambitions began early; in 2003, he was elected Organising Secretary of the Student Organisation of Nairobi University (SONU). 

His rise in public service continued when he became Chief of Staff in the Machakos County Government, a position he held for ten years before entering national politics as Kibwezi West’s MP.

For much of his two-year tenure, Mutuse had been a quiet figure in Parliament. However, his bold move to spearhead the impeachment of DP Gachagua has thrust him into the national spotlight.

This action has ignited fierce debate in Parliament and across the political divide. 

Some view him as a courageous leader taking a principled stand against "impunity," while others dismiss his motion as politically motivated.

Regardless of the outcome, Mwengi Mutuse is no longer just another face in Parliament; he is now a significant player challenging the very core of Kenya’s political establishment.