Senator Gloria Orwoba Suspended for Six Months Over Allegations
The High Court of Kenya has upheld Senator Gloria Orwoba’s six-month suspension over unsubstantiated harassment claims. Details on her restrictions and the court’s ruling.
High Court Upholds Suspension After Non-Participation in Senate Hearing
Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has been suspended from the Kenyan Senate for six months following allegations of gross misconduct and unsubstantiated claims of sexual harassment involving parliamentary officials. The suspension, initiated in September 2024, was upheld by the High Court in January 2025.
Details of Allegations and Suspension
The Senate Powers and Privileges Committee accused Senator Orwoba of disrespecting fellow senators and parliamentary staff by publishing defamatory information and making unsubstantiated allegations of sexual favors. Despite being granted an opportunity to defend herself before the committee, Senator Orwoba walked out of the proceedings, declining to participate.
The committee subsequently recommended her suspension for the remainder of the second session of the 13th Parliament.
Senator Orwoba challenged the suspension in court, alleging harassment and denial of a fair hearing. However, Justice Lawrence Mugambi ruled that due process had been followed. The court found no evidence of infringement on her rights, noting she had been provided with an opportunity to state her case but failed to do so.
Terms of Suspension
As a result of the suspension, Senator Orwoba is barred from accessing parliamentary precincts, attending plenary and committee sessions, and will forfeit associated allowances until May 2025. She is required to issue a formal apology to the Senate before being readmitted.
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