Kawira Mwangaza blasts Jamhuri Day celebrations, says Meru is suffering
By People Daily Digital Reporter, December 12, 2025Former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has stirred mixed reactions online after posting a provocative message on her Facebook page stating that there is “no Happy Jamhuri Day,” arguing that Merians and Kenyans at large have little to celebrate.
Speaking to People Daily Digital, Mwangaza said the spirit of Jamhuri Day cannot be genuine when “people of Meru who fought for independence are still living as squatters in Machaka slums in Buuri Constituency, Meru County.”
She added that residents in large parts of Meru, including Tigania, Igembe and Buuri, continue to suffer due to persistent cattle rustling, which she said has left many families living in fear and economic distress.
“There cannot be a Happy Jamhuri when our county hospitals lack proper medication,” she said, warning that the challenges facing Meru reflect deeper national struggles.
According to the former governor, the meaning of Jamhuri Day is diluted when Kenyans are still battling what she termed “precolonial problems,” including poverty, squatter settlements, weak education systems and the high cost of living.
Despite the online debate triggered by her remarks, Jamhuri Day celebrations in Meru County proceeded as scheduled at Shabaha Stadium in Nkubu, Imenti South.
62nd Jamhuri celebrations
His remarks come as Kenya celebrates its sixty-two years of independence. President William Ruto and his spouse, Mama Rachel Ruto, arrived at the Nyayo National Stadium for the commemoration of the 62nd edition of the annual event this December 12, 2025, in Nairobi.
Ruto was received by the Chief of Defence Force, General Charles Mureu Kahariri, at the venue before proceeding to inspect a guard of honour lined up before the presidential pavilion.
This year’s event, themed “Tourism, Wildlife & MICE”, highlights Kenya’s identity, prosperity, and global standing as a leading tourism hub.
The celebrations come as Kenyans reflect on the gains made in 62 years of independence and self-actualisation since breaking free from the yoke of colonial rule.
The president is expected to address the nation on the laid economic roadmap in line with his vision of transforming the country from a developing nation to a first-world country.
His arrival, which signified the official start of the function, came moments after the day’s chief guest of honour, President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, arrived at the function. Mahama was received by the Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, among other top government officials.