Former UDA nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has officially lost her seat after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) gazetted Consolata Nabwire as her replacement. In a notice dated August 15, 2025, the electoral body confirmed Nabwire as the new United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nominated Senator, bringing to a close months of political wrangles surrounding Orwoba’s expulsion.
Orwoba’s troubles began earlier this year after UDA expelled her from the party over allegations of disloyalty and violation of party ideals. The disciplinary action was largely linked to her participation in homecoming events for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i, a prominent opposition figure and declared 2027 presidential hopeful. UDA leadership also cited her repeated criticism of government policies as a breach of party loyalty.
On May 19, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar announced that the party’s Disciplinary Committee had resolved to oust Orwoba. The decision, he noted, was made under Article 29 of the UDA Constitution and was later ratified by the National Executive Committee (NEC). “Senator Gloria Orwoba ceases to be a member of the UDA Party. Consequently, she no longer enjoys any privileges accorded to party members,” Omar stated.
A day later, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi formally declared Orwoba’s seat vacant through a Gazette Notice issued on May 21, 2025. Citing Article 101(2) of the Constitution, Kingi noted that her position as a nominated senator representing special interests under Article 98(1)(b) had ceased to exist.
Orwoba attempted to challenge the decision in court but faced a setback when Justice Lawrence Mugambi dismissed her application. The judge ruled that her petition was procedurally flawed, citing the addition of new parties without court approval. “The application is incompetent and is rejected. Previous directions are maintained,” Justice Mugambi said in his ruling.
With IEBC’s gazettement, Consolata Nabwire now assumes the role of UDA’s nominated Senator. The move underscores the party’s firm stance on loyalty and discipline as it consolidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
