In a dramatic turn of events, Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia has been sworn in as the new Governor of Meru County following the impeachment of his former boss Kawira Mwangaza.
The High Court on Friday, May 14, 2025, upheld the Senate’s decision to remove Mwangaza, paving the way for Mutuma to ascend to the county’s top leadership position on March 17, 2025.
The Senate had previously voted to impeach Mwangaza on August 21, 2024, but she swiftly sought legal intervention to halt her removal from office.
It was Mwangaza’s third impeachment to reach the Senate since her election in August 2022. Although she was twice spared by the August House, the senators appeared unwilling to intervene in her favour the last time.
The court’s decisive ruling sealed Mwangaza’s fate, clearing the way for Mutuma to assume leadership of Meru County.
While he may not be a household name nationally, Mutuma’s diverse background in law enforcement, theology, and governance makes him a fascinating figure in Meru’s political landscape.
Here are five intriguing things to know about the new governor:
1. From prison walls to county hall
Isaac Mutuma’s journey to political prominence began in the Kenya Prisons Service.
Serving for 19 years since 2002, he rose to the rank of Senior Sergeant and worked as a Social Welfare Officer.
His career in corrections offered him a unique perspective on public service, community rehabilitation, and the challenges facing marginalized populations.
2. A man of the cloth
Mutuma is not only a politician but also an ordained minister in the Methodist Church.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from Kenya Methodist University, reflecting his deep-rooted faith and commitment to moral leadership.
This religious background shapes his approach to governance, focusing on integrity and service to the people.
3. Academic commitment to governance and ethics
Beyond his work in law enforcement and the church, Mutuma pursued higher education in public administration.
He earned a Master’s Degree in Governance and Ethics from Mount Kenya University, showcasing his dedication to ethical leadership and transparent governance.
4. Political journey sparked in 2022
Mutuma’s political career began in earnest when he was chosen as the running mate to Kawira Mwangaza during the 2022 general elections.
Running as independent candidates, their victory broke traditional party lines.
As Deputy Governor, he worked on several developmental initiatives before stepping into the governor’s role after Mwangaza’s ouster.
5. Deep ties to Meru’s cultural heritage
Mutuma’s roots in Meru run deep.
He is the son of the late Paul M’Ethingia, a former chairman of the Njuri Ncheke, the influential Ameru council of elders.
This connection not only grounds him in the county’s rich cultural traditions but also strengthens his influence within the local community.
As he takes the helm of Meru County, Isaac Mutuma faces the daunting task of uniting a politically fractured region while delivering on promises of good governance.
With a unique blend of law enforcement experience, religious commitment, and academic training, all eyes will be on how he steers the county toward stability and progress.
Martin Oduor
The alchemist of literary works – a master wordsmith with a proven record of transforming the raw materials of language into a rich tapestry of emotion, thought, and imagination.
View all posts by Martin Oduor