From a house-help to a Governor.

While political coalitions swept some regions with a wave, some independent candidates weathered the storm, trouncing political giants.One such candidate is the Meru Governor-elect Kawira Mwangaza who on an independent ticket caught many by surprise after falling towering political figures – incumbent Kiraitu Murungi and outgoing Senator Mithika Linturi to become the first female to hold the seat in the county.

In her first media interview since she was declared governor-elect, Mwangaza who is also a bishop at Baite Family Fellowship Church in Meru County said that her victory was a prophecy come true.
“They said I cannot run a County but i told both Kiraitu that I would get more votes than him at the ballot,” said Mwangaza.

However, she worked as a house help for almost a year before starting her political journey where she unsuccessfully vied as an MP in 2013 and it is here that she learnt her biggest lesson in life.
“I ran as an independent candidate and won with a wide margin. This campaign was different because it was people driven. I did not spend as much money as I did in 2013,” said Mwangaza.

As an independent candidate, Mwangaza floored Florence Kajuju to become woman representative and that is where she immediately began her journey to governorship, utilizing the national government affirmative action fund to make a difference through operation Okolea.
“I ensured the public resources from Ngaaf are prudently utilised. By being with the people, many urged me to go for the county governor seat in 2022,” she said.

At the height of her campaigns, her political competitors painted Meru town with posters and huge billboards but surprisingly Mwangaza chose a different campaign strategy.Now at the helm of the County, she says she will seal all loopholes of corruption.
“Just give me a few months and you will see. Meru will be a very different County,” she said.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.