New Meru Governor Isaac MutumaMeru county has a new county boss following the impeachment of Kawira Mwangaza last week.
Mwangaza, who beat all odds to clinch the seat at the 2022 polls as an Independent candidate, was impeached on August 20, 2024, after the Senate upheld charges leveled against her by the county assembly.
She appealed the decision, but the High Court on Tuesday, March 4, affirmed Senate’s decision, saying her removal from office, which she had contested saying the process was flawed, followed the law.
“The amended petition dated December 23, 2024, has not met the legal threshold for this court to disturb the decision of the Senate,” Justice Bahati Mwamuye ruled while dismissing Mwangaza’s petition.
And so it came to pass that Mwangaza’s deputy, Isaac Mutuma M'Ethingia, would as per the law established, automatically succeed her as the new Meru governor.
Mutuma took the oath of office on Monday, March 17, at Mwendantu Grounds, becoming Meru county’s fourth governor.
But little is known about the soft-spoken reverend who is rarely in the public limelight, save for the countable number of times he’s spoken in the media during official functions.
Mutuma is an ordained reverend in the Methodist Churches of Kenya, where he has exemplified his dedication to spiritual and community development.
He also boasts of extensive background in public service, where he has held various leadership positions.
Mutuma worked as a prison officer for 19 years, within which time he rose to the position of senior sergeant.
During his stint in the Kenya Prisons Service, he exhibited strong leadership skills and a commitment to upholding the law, thereby working as a social welfare officer and Inmate Rehabilitation Program Implementer.
He also served as a child rights advocate with Plan International, chaired several esteemed institutions, and served as Youth Representative for Habitat for Humanity in the Mt Kenya region.
Mutuma’s leadership skills were heavily influenced by his father, Mzee Paul M'Ethingia, a former Njuri Ncheke and Kenya Council of Elders chairman.
Education
Mutuma's educational achievements further demonstrate his commitment to professional growth.
He holds a Master's Degree in Governance and Ethics from Mount Kenya University, knowledge he sought to further enhance his expertise in public administration and ethical governance.
He also holds a Bachelor's Degree in Theology from Kenya Methodist University and a Higher Diploma in Forensic Psychology and Criminology from the Kenya Institute of Studies in Criminal Justice.
Entry into politics
Mutuma entered politics during the August, 2022, General Elections where he vied as Mwangaza’s running mate on an Independent ticket.
He played a key role towards selling Mwangaza’s manifesto, which encompassed various critical areas, including efficient service delivery to the residents of Meru county, youth and women empowerment and the transformation of medical and public health services.
As a strong believer in gender equality, Mutuma actively supports women's empowerment and is known to actively work towards fostering an equitable society.
Soon after taking the oath of office, Mutuma pledged to prioritise uniting Meru leaders after the tumultuous removal of his former boss created rifts.
“I will reach out to all leaders—elected, nominated, appointed, religious leaders, community elders, and even those in the business sector,” he said. “Together, we shall forge a united force for the betterment of Meru.”
