By Janet Nyanchoka
Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba is now facing accusations of disloyalty and unbecoming conduct by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
Consequently, Orwoba has been instructed to appear before the party’s Disciplinary Committee on May 16th.
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The party cites her participation in events involving former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i.
A letter by UDA dated May 7, 2025, accuses Senator Orwoba of showing allegiance to another political movement by attending and speaking at Dr Matiang’i’s events.
The cited instances include receiving Dr Matiang’i at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on April 17 when he returned into the country from the United States of America.
It also mentions Dr Matiang’i’s homecoming rally at Gusii Stadium on May 2, and a radio interview on Spice FM on April 22.
According to UDA, these actions breach the party’s Code of Conduct and violate Article 75 of the Constitution of Kenya, which mandates public officers to maintain political neutrality and uphold the dignity of their offices.
The letter, signed by Disciplinary Committee Chairperson Charles Njenga, states that Senator Orwoba’s utterances “clearly demonstrate instances and proof of allegiance to another political movement.”
The summons come amid growing speculation over political realignments in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Dr. Matiang’i, a prominent figure during the last electoral cycle, has recently made a return to public life, prompting speculation that he go for the presidency in 2027.
Senator Orwoba’s appearance at his events has fueled further talk of shifting allegiances within UDA.
Orwoba is required at the party’s offices, the Hustler Centre in Nairobi on the stated date.
She will be required to “show cause why appropriate disciplinary action should not be taken (to her.”
The party warns that if found liable, she may face sanctions including possible expulsion, pending approval by the National Executive Committee.
Senator Orwoba is yet to issue a formal public response.
However, sources close to her suggest she may argue that her presence at the events was not an endorsement of another political outfit but rather a demonstration of democratic engagement.
Her defenders argue that penalizing a legislator for attending public functions or granting media interviews may raise concerns about political intolerance within party structures.
The situation now presents a critical test for UDA’s internal democracy and the limits of freedom of association and expression for elected and nominated leaders.
It also places the spotlight on how political parties in the country manage divergent opinions from their members, particularly those in leadership positions.
The outcome of Senator Orwoba’s disciplinary hearing could have far-reaching implications—not only for her political future but also the broader landscape of loyalty and independent thought within party structures.
