The impeachment trial against Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza began on Monday, August 19.
The county assembly accuses her of forgery, gross violation of the Constitution and abuse of office.
Boniface Mawira, a lawyer for the assembly, alleged that Mwangaza falsified documents related to the dismissal of Virginia Kawira Miriti, the CEO of the Meru County Public Service Board.
“Forging documents to cover up the revocation of the CEO’s appointment is a central issue,” Mawira said.
Ndegwa Njiru, lead counsel for the assembly, accused Mwangaza of mismanaging resources and failing to implement assembly recommendations.
Njiru claimed that the governor’s alleged mismanagement led to a loss of Sh212 million due to poor payroll practices.
He also alleged that Mwangaza misled the public about funds raised and authorised irregular payments. “Her inability to manage the County Government of Meru is the core issue,” Njiru said.
Mwangaza faces charges of illegally revoking Miriti’s appointment without the required vote and breaching financial regulations.
She is also accused of failing to implement assembly resolutions and mismanaging resources.
This is Mwangaza’s third appearance before the Senate for impeachment proceedings, following previous accusations of misconduct and mismanagement.
The Senate will vote on her fate on Tuesday, August 20. Today’s session resumes at 2:30 p.m.