Ousted Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza now says running as an independent candidate put her at a disadvantage and ultimately led to her impeachment. "I had no resources but the people believed in my vision to free them from political servitude, poverty and other challenges.

Their votes were not in vain, and the development projects they can see are a testament," she said.  Mwangaza argued that with President William Ruto's UDA and former Governor Kiraitu Murungi's influence over the County Assembly, she stood no chance of avoiding removal. "I was ejected because I had no political party," she said.

She claimed her opponents had united against her after she refused to allow Meru leaders to interfere with her administration. "I was removed because I refused to be a puppet governor," said Mwangaza on Wednesday, March 19.  The impeached governor vowed not to be silenced or intimidated as she fights to defend her rights.

She accused a group of powerful elected leaders, including MPs, of orchestrating her impeachment.  As she seeks legal redress, Mwangaza said she plans to mobilise public protests against her removal.