The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal has overturned the expulsion of former nominated senator Gloria Orwoba from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), setting off a wave of political uncertainty.
Tribunal Overturns UDA’s Decision
On Wednesday, August 20, the tribunal ruled that UDA mishandled Orwoba’s disciplinary case. It cited legal flaws and irregularities in the process, declaring the party’s decision unlawful.
The ruling directed UDA to reinstate Orwoba, reversing her removal from the party.
Nabwire Sworn In Before Ruling
The decision, however, came just hours after the Senate welcomed Consolata Nabwire Wakwabubi as Orwoba’s replacement.
Nabwire was sworn in on August 20, during a session presided over by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi. She had earlier been gazetted by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) on August 15.
During her oath, Nabwire pledged to serve with loyalty and defend the Constitution:
“I, Consolata Nabwire Wakwabubi, having been elected a member of the Senate, do swear in the name of the Almighty God, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the people and the Republic of Kenya, that I will obey, respect, uphold, preserve, protect and defend this Constitution of the Republic of Kenya, and that I will faithfully and conscientiously discharge the duties of a Member of Parliament. So help me God.”
— Consolata Nabwire Wakwabubi, sworn-in senator
Orwoba Reacts to Tribunal Ruling
Speaking after the verdict, Orwoba accused key institutions of deliberately rushing Nabwire’s swearing-in despite knowing the case was pending.
“The Political Parties Tribunal has ruled that my removal as a senator is unlawful and unconstitutional. The court has quashed all decisions and actions, including the Senate Gazette, the IEBC Gazette, and the swearing-in of Consolata Wakwabubi.”
— Gloria Orwoba, former nominated senator
She further claimed that the Senate, IEBC, Speaker, and Clerk ignored the scheduled ruling date.
“They instead chose to call a special sitting to unlawfully swear in Consolata before the ruling.”
— Gloria Orwoba
Allegations of Intimidation
Orwoba also revealed that she has faced threats urging her to abandon her claim to the seat.
“I have received several communications warning me to shut up and let it go. These threats target me and my family.”
— Gloria Orwoba
Uncertain Road Ahead
The tribunal’s ruling has now created legal and political confusion. All attention shifts to UDA, which must decide whether to comply with the ruling or challenge it further in court.