Kiraitu Murungi: Why we united to remove Kawira Mwangaza

Former Meru governor Kiraitu Murungi has revealed he was part of a team that plotted the ouster of Kawira Mwangaza.

Speaking to NTV on Thursday evening, Mr Murungi said the decision to impeach Ms Mwangaza was made by elected leaders, Njuri Ncheke elders and the clergy.

"I had accepted defeat and was ready to give space to Mwangaza to work for the people of Meru. I went to explore the world and learnt so much about happiness."

"But back in Meru Mwangaza continued with her campaign of mudslinging and name calling. Instead of working, she went around politicking. Her promise to uplift the lives of the people did not materialise," he said.

A coordinated effort

Mr Murungi accused  Ms Mwangaza of opening war fronts with all MPs and MCAs as well as "those of us who left".

"She hurled insults and inflicted alot ot pain on us. She was like a film star who traversed as a lone ranger," he added.

According to the former Meru governor, the decision to oust Ms Mwangaza was also inspired by lack of development.

"She was elected with the promise to advance the interest of the meru people but it turned out to be mere rhetoric. She had promised to take care of children but scrapped the school milk programme," Mr Murungi said.

He added, "We perceived that even if she is given 10 years, she won't deliver anything. As concerned leaders, we decided to help the people of Meru. We united as leaders and did our part and she went home."

The UDA wave factor

A guarded Mr Murungi said he contributed significantly to the removal of his successor.

Mr Murungi denied targeting Ms Mwangaza because she is a woman.

"The claim that she was targeted for being a woman is mere propaganda. But it is possible to have a bad woman leader. Mwangaza was a bad leader," he said.

Mr Murungi says despite losing to Ms Mwangaza, it was largely due the UDA wave.

"I have no problem with women leaders. In fact, during my tenure, I had a programme to empower women, he said.