Rigathi Gachagua, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader, has criticised the Senate’s move to declare nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba’s seat vacant.
In a statement issued by DCP on Thursday, May 22, Gachagua said the decision was made too quickly and ignored a court order that had already stopped her removal.
“The Senate Speaker’s rush to declare her seat vacant even while a court order was in place is a dangerous signal of the shrinking democratic space under President Ruto’s leadership,” the party said.
Just a day before, on May 21, the High Court in Nairobi issued an order stopping the United Democratic Alliance (UDA)’s decision to expel Senator Orwoba.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi ruled that her expulsion and planned replacement must wait until the case is fully heard and decided.
Despite this, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi still announced that Orwoba’s seat was vacant. In a gazette notice dated May 21, Kingi said her position was vacant immediately, allowing UDA to begin the process of choosing her replacement.
“It is notified for the general information of the public that pursuant to Article 101(2) of the Constitution of Kenya, a seat of the Member of the Senate elected under Article 98(1)(b) of the Constitution, held by Senator Gloria Orwoba, has become vacant with effect from the 21st May, 2025," the gazette notice read.
DCP defended Orwoba's meeting with Fred Matiang'i, saying she was being punished for actions that showed unity, not division.
“The recent expulsion of Senator Gloria Orwoba by UDA is a clear sign of growing political intolerance. What were her so-called crimes? First, she attended a cultural event in her home county, Kisii, where leaders from across the political divide—including ODM’s Simba Arati—gathered to welcome Hon. Fred Matiang’i. This was a show of unity, not division,” the statement read.
The party also supported her in questioning Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua about Kenyans who lost money in fake job promises abroad.
DCP said it fully supports Senator Orwoba and will continue defending every Kenyan’s right to speak up and participate in national matters.
“Senator Gloria Orwoba has been a fearless voice for girls' rights, justice, and human dignity. She is not alone; DCP stands with her. We will continue to defend every Kenyan’s right to speak, question, and participate without fear,” the party said.
