Kawira Mwangaza’s New Political Move That Could Hand Sifuna a Major Victory in Meru

Kawira Mwangaza has emerged as a key political figure in the battle for Meru votes ahead of the 2027 General Election, with her new role in Edwin Sifuna’s party placing her at the centre of the region’s political contest.

The former Meru Governor has been appointed First Deputy Party Leader of the Umoja wa Maendeleo Party (UMP), led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, as the senator seeks to strengthen his political influence beyond Nairobi.

Mwangaza’s appointment has attracted attention because of her grassroots support in Meru, where Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua are also fighting for political control.

Political commentator Edwin Kiongozi believes Mwangaza remains an influential figure whose support could help Sifuna make significant gains in the region.

Kiongozi says Mwangaza’s political star is still shining, adding that she has the ability to deliver victory for Sifuna in Meru if she successfully mobilises residents behind his ambitions.

However, Kindiki has dismissed Sifuna’s chances of winning substantial support in the region, maintaining that Meru remains his political backyard.

The Deputy President questioned the assurances Mwangaza may have given Sifuna about his support in Meru, saying that anyone who has lied to him that he will get votes in the region is taking him for a fool.

Kindiki also argued that a young politician from outside the region has little chance of winning over Meru voters.

He has continued to project his influence by claiming the support of all Meru MPs and most MCAs, who have pledged to support President William Ruto’s re-election.

Buuri MP Mugambi Rindikiri has also expressed doubts about Sifuna’s chances, arguing that the senator cannot win over Meru and the wider Mt Kenya region.

“Sifuna cannot crack Meru and the entire Mt Kenya region. Traditionally, this region goes with the party in power,” Rindikiri said.

However, former Nkuene Ward MCA and political commentator Nick Kiingiinya believes the political situation could change if Sifuna works with Gachagua.

Kiingiinya argues that an alliance between Sifuna and Gachagua, supported by Mwangaza’s grassroots mobilisation, could create a strong political force capable of challenging Ruto’s influence in the region.

He acknowledges that most elected leaders, including MPs and MCAs, are currently aligned with the President but maintains that the political mood among ordinary residents could favour Mwangaza.

According to Kiingiinya, Mwangaza remains a brilliant grassroots mobiliser whose influence could become a major advantage for Sifuna as he seeks to expand his political support in Meru.

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