The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has officially cut ties with nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba, marking a definitive end to a turbulent chapter between the outspoken legislator and the ruling party.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Saturday, UDA Treasurer Japheth Nyakundi confirmed the party’s decision to expel Orwoba, accusing her of gross disloyalty and political insubordination.
“We are done with you. You are no longer a party member. You can’t bite the hands that feed you,” Nyakundi said, signaling the party’s loss of patience with the senator.
Tensions have been simmering for months, but they reached boiling point after Orwoba was seen attending multiple events associated with former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i an influential figure often perceived as a rival to UDA’s leadership.
Her attendance at Matiang’i’s welcome at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and his homecoming ceremony in Kisii County raised eyebrows within party ranks.
Adding fuel to the fire was a cryptic message Orwoba sent to Nyakundi and UDA Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro:
“Good morning Sylvanus Osoro and Japheth Nyakundi… Gusii Community is watching you. Happy Sabbath.”
The message, interpreted as a veiled warning or challenge, did little to ease party concerns over her loyalty.
In response, Nyakundi lashed out:
“The only price you pay in politics is loyalty to the party and the party leader. You have disregarded all that. We wish you all the best with your new party leader.”
The UDA disciplinary committee had earlier summoned Orwoba to appear before them on May 16, citing several instances of “misconduct,” including an April 22 interview on Spice FM where she openly criticised the government’s labour mobility programme a flagship initiative under President William Ruto.
While the disciplinary summons remains formally in place, Nyakundi’s statement suggests the party may consider the matter closed. Orwoba’s response, if any, has yet to be issued, but the fallout appears irreversible.
Whether Senator Orwoba will seek alignment with another political formation or pursue an independent path remains unclear. For now, her walkout from UDA once her political home is both symbolic and final.
