Meru County is set to witness a significant leadership transition as Deputy Governor Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia prepares to be sworn in as the new governor on Monday, March 17, 2025. The Assumption of Office committee, led by Martin Gitije, announced that the swearing-in ceremony will take place at Mwendantu Grounds, starting at 8:30 am.
This development follows the recent decision by the High Court, which upheld the Senate’s impeachment of Governor Kawira Mwangaza on Friday, March 14. The impeachment stemmed from allegations of misconduct and abuse of office, leading to her removal from the gubernatorial position.
Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia, who also serves as a reverend, has a diverse background in public service. He spent 19 years with the Kenya Prisons Service, rising to the rank of Senior Sergeant and Social Welfare Officer. Beyond corrections, Mutuma has been a Child Rights Advocate with Plan International, a Youth Representative for Habitat for Humanity in the Mount Kenya Region, and has held leadership positions in various esteemed institutions. Academically, he holds a Higher Diploma in Forensic Psychology and Criminology from the Kenya Institute of Studies in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from Kenya Methodist University. He is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Governance and Ethics at Mount Kenya University.
The relationship between Mutuma and Mwangaza had been strained in recent times, marked by mutual accusations and public disputes. In September 2023, reports indicated that their differences had escalated, with the deputy governor alleging exclusion from key meetings and withdrawal of official resources. Mwangaza, on the other hand, downplayed these issues, attributing them to minor disagreements and accusing Mutuma of collaborating with her political adversaries.
Once sworn in, Mutuma will become Meru’s fourth governor, following in the footsteps of Peter Munya, Kiraitu Murungi, and Kawira Mwangaza. Residents and stakeholders are expected to attend the ceremony as the county ushers in new leadership.
