Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has been rated as the worst performing female governor in Kenya, according to an online survey conducted by Kenyans.co.ke on June 21st, 2023.
The survey sought to gauge public sentiment regarding the performance of female governors across the country.
The results revealed that Governor Wavinya Ndeti of Machakos emerged as the top-performing female governor, receiving an impressive approval rating of 63.3% from respondents.
Governor Ndeti’s exceptional performance has garnered the satisfaction and support of Kenyans since she assumed office.
Throughout her tenure, she has implemented several key projects that have had a transformative impact on the lives of residents. Notable among these initiatives is a school feeding program for early childhood development education (ECDE) learners across Machakos County, ensuring that young children receive adequate nutrition for their growth and development.
Additionally, Governor Ndeti has provided free certified seeds and subsidized fertilizer to farmers, supporting the agricultural sector and boosting food production. Furthermore, she has prioritized the upgrading of roads to bitumen standards and the recarpeting of poor roads, enhancing transportation infrastructure within the county.
“I found a significant number of roads across the county in bad condition. That is why within my first 100 days in office, I initiated the Rapid Response Initiative where we graded 1,325 kilometers across the county.” Says Governor Ndeti.
Gladys Wanga, the Governor of Homabay, secured the second-best ranking in the survey with an approval rating of 21.8%. Governor Wanga’s dedication to implementing various development projects and initiatives has earned her the recognition and appreciation of her constituents.
Susan Kihika, the Governor of Nakuru, claimed the third position in the survey with an approval rating of 9.9%. Governor Kihika’s commitment to improving the lives of Nakuru County residents through effective governance and development projects has not gone unnoticed.
Unfortunately, Governor Kawira Mwangaza of Meru County found herself at the bottom of the ranking, receiving a meager approval rating of 5%.
Respondents to the poll have associated Governor Mwangaza with constant conflicts and disputes with other elected leaders in Meru.
Since her election, she has been at loggerheads with Members of County Assembly (MCAs), Members of Parliament (MPs), and even the Meru Senator. The level of discord escalated to the point where the intervention of the President was necessary to mediate and resolve the standoff with the MCAs.
Recently, she was involved in a dispute with her Deputy, Mr. Mutuma M’Ethingia, resulting in the confiscation of his vehicle by County officials and the cancellation of official trips.
Furthermore, Governor Mwangaza’s tenure has been marked by a lack of notable county projects. The absence of tangible development initiatives has left Meru residents feeling disappointed and frustrated.
Some residents view her charitable activities under the Okolea initiative during weekends as a mere cover-up for the lack of meaningful development projects.
She faced criticism last month for inaugurating a zebra crossing at night, a decision that was widely regarded as imprudent and inappropriate.
On Wednesday, Governor Mwangaza’s communication team was seen mobilizing Kenyans in WhatsApp groups to vote in support of the Governor. However, despite their efforts, the survey results still placed her at the bottom of the poll.
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