FIDA Kenya Offers To Represent Governor Mwangaza In Impeachment Trial

The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has offered to represent embattled Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza during the hearing of her impeachment.

In a letter addressed to the governor, the organisation has expressed its concerns over what it has termed as constant attacks against her.

It has cited the two impeachments by the Meru county assembly MCAs since her election.

“In line with our vision and mission as FIDA-Kenya, we write to offer you legal representation both before the Senate and the courts of law to ensure that you achieve justice in the matter,” reads the letter.

“Please do not hesitate to contact us in case you require additional information or clarification,” the letter signed by the chairperson Nancy Ikinu further reads.

The decision taken by FIDA, Ikinu notes, is informed by the fact that it has been at the forefront in advocating for the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDG5).

This is aimed at achieving gender equality and empowering all women.

As part of its efforts to promote and advance women’s political participation, it points out that it conducted the Vote Dada campaign and the Women Leadership Academy in the run-up to the 2022 general election.

“And, continues with capacity building of elected women leaders across the country,” Ikinu said.

Kawira is set to defend herself on the floor of the House after Senators rejected a motion that would have seen her appear before a special committee.

The motion to form an 11-member committee to investigate the impeachment allegations against the governor was moved by Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina.

Ole Kina, who is the Senate Minority Whip, had argued in his motion that the senators will have the ultimate decision after the 11-member committee tables its report.

In the afternoon session, senators voted against the motion by way of acclamation.

Efforts by some members included Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi to support the motion flopped.

Osotsi had argued that the committee will ensure the people of Meru get the justice they are looking for.

“Let us go the committee way so that we can do a clean job,” he said.

Senate majority leader Aaron Cheruiyot on his part opposed it saying there is no method better than the other as claimed by some members.

He said having participated in both processes, it is clear both processes are fair, sound and with a good legal basis to deliver the best result for the specific county that is before the house.

“Anybody trying to peddle that kind of argument in my opinion, Mr Speaker, is misleading the House. I say this as a ranking member,” he noted.