Peter Munya, the leader of the Party of National Unity (PNU), has announced his intention to run for Meru Governor, just a day after Governor Kawira Mwangaza was impeached for the third time.
Munya, who served as Meru’s first governor, expressed his determination to complete the initiatives he began in 2013.
While inaugurating a PNU office in North Imenti Constituency, the former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary criticized the ongoing leadership conflicts in Meru, stating that they have undermined the progress of devolution.
“Since I left office in 2017, there has been little advancement by the subsequent governors. What happened to the work we started in 2013? The resources have increased, yet there’s no visible development in Meru,” Munya said.
Early Campaigns
Munya mentioned that his campaign for governorship has begun with the establishment of party offices across all constituencies to boost his political platform.
“Opening these party offices is our initial step towards the county governor campaign. Support our political party so that we can have a significant influence in national politics. We shouldn’t rely on other parties’ political vehicles every election season,” Munya emphasized.
Munya is one of six Meru politicians Governor Mwangaza has accused of contributing to her persistent political struggles. In a recent press briefing, Mwangaza expressed her desire to have direct discussions with these six politicians to understand their grievances against her.
“I would like to sit down with Kiraitu Murungi, Peter Munya, Mithika Linturi, Senator Kathuri Murungi, Buuri MP Mugambi Rindikiri, and Tigania West MP Mpuru Aburi to understand what they have against me. They are the reason behind my repeated impeachments,” Mwangaza said.
Initially, Mwangaza was a close ally of Munya, often referring to him as her political mentor. However, their relationship deteriorated, and Munya is now one of her primary political rivals.
In the meantime, Munya reiterated PNU’s intention to distance itself from Azimio and sever ties with ODM, whose former leaders have joined the government.
“Thanks to the foundations laid by Presidents Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta, this administration had a clear mandate to expand the economy and create jobs. However, they have failed, leading to the youth taking to the streets.
“The reforms demanded by young Kenyans are not about sharing a few cabinet positions but addressing corruption and poor governance,” Munya remarked.
He added that the Kenya Kwanza administration would struggle to survive the current wave of change if it doesn’t address the economic issues.
Meru Residents Respond
A few hours after Kawira Mwangaza’s impeachment, former Governor Peter Munya wasted no time in making a desperate move, jetting back to Meru to relaunch his PNU party.
It is the timing of Munya’s return from Nairobi that has sparked more questions than enthusiasm among Meru residents.
His swift return to Meru, immediately following the impeachment, has fuelled suspicions about his involvement in the saga.
“Mr. Munya must have a hand in plotting the Governor’s downfall, with the intent to clear the path for his own political resurgence.” Says Mr. Kiambati from Mbeu.
His actions have left many wondering whether the impeachment was a matter of governance, or a calculated move to eliminate a rival and stage his comeback.
Crowds that gathered at Gakoromone were far from welcoming—many chanting pro-Kawira slogans, a clear sign that Munya’s attempt to capitalize on the situation has misfired.
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