In a significant legal development, the High Court in Nairobi has issued a conservatory order suspending the United Democratic Alliance (UDA)’s decision to expel Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba from the party. Justice Lawrence Mugambi’s ruling, dated May 21, 2025, halts both Orwoba’s expulsion and the appointment of her replacement, pending the hearing and determination of her petition challenging the party’s actions.
The court’s intervention came shortly after Senate Speaker Amason Kingi declared Orwoba’s seat vacant, following UDA’s communication of her expulsion. The party had cited allegations of disloyalty, including her participation in events associated with former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and public criticism of government programs, as grounds for disciplinary action.
Orwoba, through her legal team, contends that UDA’s disciplinary process was procedurally flawed and politically motivated. She argues that the party proceeded with her expulsion despite a prior court order suspending disciplinary proceedings, thereby acting in contempt of court. Her petition also accuses UDA officials of bad faith and violating her rights to fair administrative action.
The matter is scheduled for mention on June 3, 2025, when the court will provide further directions. Until then, Orwoba retains her position as a nominated senator, and any actions to replace her remain suspended.
