Isaac Mutuma: The Meru Deputy Governor Poised to Succeed Kawira Mwangaza

Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia is set to be sworn in as Meru Governor on Monday, March 17, 2025. But who is the man stepping into the county’s top seat?

A former senior officer in the Kenya Prisons Service, Mutuma built a reputation for strong leadership and a firm stand on law enforcement.

His track record goes beyond security—he has been a vocal supporter of women’s leadership, diversity, and gender equality, earning him widespread praise.

As he prepares to take charge, all eyes are on how he will steer Meru’s political landscape.

Who is Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia?

Mutuma M’Ethingia is the current Deputy Governor of Meru County. He rose to power in 2022 after running as an independent alongside Governor Kawira Mwangaza.

Their victory was a political upset. They defeated seasoned politicians, including UDA’s Mithika Linturi and former Governor Kiraitu Murungi. Mutuma and Kawira secured 209,148 votes, leaving Linturi with 183,859 and Murungi with 110,814.

Now, Mutuma stands on the brink of taking over Meru’s leadership. The county is in turmoil, with MCAs filing impeachment and censure motions against eight of Kawira’s executive members.

The political battleground is heating up, and Mutuma’s next moves could shape Meru’s future.

Education Background

Mutuma M’Ethingia has a diverse academic background blending criminology, theology, and governance.

He holds a Higher Diploma in Forensic Psychology and Criminology from the Kenya Institute of Studies in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology from Kenya Methodist University.

To strengthen his leadership skills, he pursued a Master’s Degree in Governance and Ethics from Mount Kenya University.

His education reflects a deep understanding of law, morality, and governance—key pillars in his political journey.

Career, Key Roles and Achievements

Mutuma M’Ethingia’s career spans religious leadership, law enforcement, and community advocacy. As a Reverend in the Methodist Church of Kenya, he dedicated himself to spiritual and social development.

His leadership extended to the Kenya Prisons Service, where he held a senior position, enforcing the law while advocating for inmate rehabilitation.

Mutuma also championed child rights with Plan International and represented youth in the Mount Kenya Region for Habitat for Humanity.

Beyond that, he chaired several esteemed institutions and served as a human rights officer, reinforcing his commitment to justice and governance. His diverse experience positions him as a dynamic leader in Meru’s political landscape.

Why Isaac Mutuma Is the Right Choice to Succeed Kawira Mwangaza

Mutuma M’Ethingia is now on the verge of taking over as Meru Governor following Kawira Mwangaza’s ouster. The Constitution is clear—if a governor is impeached, the deputy automatically assumes office for the remainder of the term.

On March 14, 2025, the High Court in Nairobi upheld Kawira’s impeachment, dismissing her petition against the Senate’s decision. She had argued that the process violated constitutional provisions and ignored a court order.

However, the Senate Speaker defended the move, insisting due process was followed and the charges met the legal threshold. The High Court concurred, ruling that the Senate did not act in defiance of the Meru court order.

With Kawira out, Mutuma is set to take the reins of the politically charged Meru County. His leadership will be put to the test as he navigates the county’s turbulent political landscape.

What led to Kawira Mwangaza’s removal from office?

Kawira Mwangaza’s impeachment marked the climax of a series of attempts to remove her from office since her election in 2022.

In this third and final push, MCAs charged her with gross misconduct, abuse of office, and violating the Constitution.

One of the key accusations was that she misled the public about funds raised for the late blogger Daniel Muthiani’s family.

According to the MCAs, she deliberately lied about the amount collected, fueling distrust in her leadership. Her downfall now paves the way for Mutuma M’Ethingia to take over a deeply divided county.

His next steps will determine whether he can stabilize Meru’s volatile political landscape or face the same fate as his predecessor.