Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba is now at the center of a growing political pressure after the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) signaled it may cut ties with her. The ruling party says she has shown open disloyalty to the party and its leadership.
On Saturday, UDA Treasurer Japheth Nyakundi released a strong statement declaring that Orwoba’s time in UDA had come to an end. He said, “We are done with you. You are no longer a party member. You can’t bite the hands that feed you.” His words were a clear sign that UDA may soon expel Orwoba officially.
This sharp fallout appears to have been triggered by a short message Orwoba sent to Nyakundi and UDA Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro. Her message read, “Good morning Sylvanus Osoro and Japheth Nyakundi… Gusii Community is watching you. Happy Sabbath.”
Though the message was brief, it was widely seen as a warning. UDA insiders reportedly took it as a threat, especially given the timing and rising political temperature within the party. Orwoba is suspected of siding with Fred Matiang’i, the former Interior CS and a well-known critic of President William Ruto.
Nyakundi was quick to respond, saying that loyalty in politics is not optional. He insisted that anyone going against the party line should not expect to remain part of it. As the situation escalated, UDA’s disciplinary committee stepped in and formally summoned Orwoba.
They want her to answer for what they call serious acts of misconduct. In a statement released on Friday, Charles Njenga, who chairs the disciplinary committee, outlined three major actions that they say show Orwoba has betrayed the party.
First was her presence at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to welcome Fred Matiang’i back to the country. Then she attended his homecoming event at Gusii Stadium, which was seen by UDA as a clear show of support for a political rival.
Lastly, the party pointed to her interview on Spice FM, where she openly criticized the government’s labour mobility programme. This programme is one of President Ruto’s flagship policies, and her criticism was viewed as undermining the government’s image. With tensions running high and UDA leaders openly turning their backs on her, Orwoba now faces an uncertain political future.
Her links to opposition voices and growing distance from the ruling party’s core leadership may lead to her official removal. What remains to be seen is whether she will continue to stand by her positions or make an attempt to reconcile with UDA.
