Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has unveiled the Umoja na Maendeleo Party (UMP).
Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has officially returned to the political scene with a bold statement launching her political vehicle, the Umoja na Maendeleo Party (UMP). The move comes months after her dramatic impeachment, which rocked the Meru political space.
The launch took place at her rural home in Ntumburi, Buuri constituency, where she declared her ambition to build UMP into a national party ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Mwangaza, now the party leader, confidently stated that UMP would participate in all upcoming by-elections and field candidates in every part of Kenya during the next general elections.
“We’re not just forming a party to add numbers. We are serious. UMP will be on the ballot everywhere in 2027,” she said.
Previously, the party was led by former Embu Governor Martin Wambora, but now, under Mwangaza’s leadership, it is undergoing a fresh transformation.
Reflecting on her removal from office, Mwangaza claimed her troubles began because she lacked a strong political party. She alleged that her impeachment was orchestrated through political influence, not a fair process.
“I believe my impeachment wasn’t about justice. It was just a call away. They thought they had finished me, but I’m not done yet,” she said, likening her ordeal to biblical events.
In a bold allegation, Mwangaza pointed fingers at 70 male leaders, accusing them of working against her from the onset of her term simply because she defeated them in elections.
She claimed that the loss was too bitter for them to accept, and they began plotting from her first month in office.
The former governor expressed interest in reclaiming her position. She said she would either return through a court process or make a political comeback in 2027, depending on the court’s decision on her eligibility.
Mwangaza outlined UMP’s main mission, supporting young people with leadership potential but lacking campaign funds. She said the party would not judge candidates by their wallets but by their vision.
“We have so many young people with leadership ability, but they’re blocked by money. We will lift them,” she added.
To counter critics, Mwangaza pointed to achievements during her time as governor, including digging over 40 boreholes, constructing three dams, and keeping tight control of county projects to prevent corruption and misuse.
While she didn’t openly support either President William Ruto or his deputy Rigathi Gachagua, Mwangaza hinted that Meru politics may take a new direction. She urged residents to shun those who led efforts to remove her from office.
“We are not against listening (Skiza), but we also need development. That’s the kind of leadership Meru deserves,” she concluded.
