Justice Lawrence Mugambi dismissed Orwoba’s petition to bar the suspension, stating that she had been allowed to appear before the committee but chose not to participate. “The Petitioner was provided with the opportunity to state her case before the Powers and Privileges Committee but voluntarily refused to engage and walked out on the proceedings,” Mugambi said in his ruling
Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has been suspended from the Senate for six months after the High Court upheld the decision of the Senate Powers and Privileges Committee, which found her guilty of breaching parliamentary rules.
Justice Lawrence Mugambi dismissed Orwoba’s petition to bar the suspension, stating that she had been allowed to appear before the committee but chose not to participate. “The Petitioner was provided with the opportunity to state her case before the Powers and Privileges Committee but voluntarily refused to engage and walked out on the proceedings,” Mugambi said in his ruling.
The court found no infringement on Orwoba’s right to a fair hearing, emphasizing that her refusal to participate undermined her claims of being denied justice. “Having taken this firm stance, the Petitioner cannot accuse the committee of denying her the opportunity to defend herself in proceedings she refused to participate in,” the judge noted.
The Senate committee had recommended Orwoba’s suspension in 2023 after determining that her conduct violated parliamentary privileges. The report cited accusations that Orwoba had disrespected colleagues by publishing inappropriate and unfounded allegations, including claims of sexual misconduct and discrimination within Parliament.
Despite her defence that the committee lacked jurisdiction and failed to provide her with the necessary documentation for her case, the court ruled against her. Orwoba also alleged that she had been a victim of discriminatory practices in the Senate, including being denied access to certain records.
With the suspension set to take effect when the Senate resumes, Orwoba will lose access to allowances, foreign and local travel opportunities, and other parliamentary benefits.
The Senate Powers and Privileges Committee’s report highlighted that Orwoba’s refusal to engage with the inquiry process further substantiated the charges against her. The Speaker of the Senate is expected to make a formal announcement of her suspension.
This decision has sparked conversations about accountability and the boundaries of privilege within the legislative framework, raising questions about the balance between parliamentary conduct and individual rights.
