Karen Nyamu, Gloria Orwoba: Controversial conduct of nominated senators under scrutiny

Nominated Senators Karen Nyamu (L) and Gloria Orwoba (R) [Facebook] The behaviour of some of Kenya's nominated senators continues to stir controversy, raising concerns about the decorum expected from leaders entrusted with legislative responsibilities. With repeated public incidents and questionable conduct, governance experts are calling for stricter oversight from political parties to ensure that nominated leaders uphold integrity and respect. Karen Nyamu's trail of controversies Senator Karen Nyamu has often found herself in the spotlight for reasons beyond legislative duties. Most recently, a video surfaced showing her alongside MP Njoroge Kururia making derogatory remarks, prompting backlash from Kenyans. In the footage, Nyamu raises her middle finger while speaking in Kikuyu, loosely translating to: "We touched the mountain, and we will come back to do it again." This incident adds to a growing list of controversies surrounding the senator. In February 2023, she was ejected from the Senate chambers for violating the House's dress code by wearing a sleeveless top. Speaker Amason Kingi instructed her to leave and return dressed appropriately. Nyamu also made headlines during a Mugithi concert in Dubai, where she was involved in a public altercation with musician Samuel Muchoki, popularly known as Samidoh, and his wife, Edith. A viral video captured Nyamu forcefully sitting on Samidoh's lap, leading to a confrontation with his wife. The incident compelled the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Disciplinary Committee to summon her for bringing disrepute to the party. Further raising eyebrows, Nyamu once appeared barefoot in the Senate chambers, prompting Kilifi Senator Stewart Madzayo to raise a point of order. Speaker Kingi intervened, allowing her to proceed only after she put on her shoes. Gloria Orwoba's fight for awareness or disruptive conduct? Senator Gloria Orwoba has also been at the center of Senate controversies. In February 2023, she was asked to leave a Senate session due to what appeared to be menstrual stains on her outfit. Orwoba defended her appearance, stating that she was on her period and accusing colleagues of perpetuating menstrual stigma. While some saw her actions as an awareness campaign, others criticised her approach as inappropriate for a legislative setting. In August of the same year, Orwoba was accused of making unsubstantiated claims about sexual favours, favouritism, and corruption within Parliament. She allegedly made these allegations on the Senate Business WhatsApp group and during a media briefing. Senator Gloria Orwoba in a stained trouser arriving at the Parliament buildings, Nairobi [File/Standard] The Senate Powers and Privileges Committee launched an inquiry, but Orwoba declined to participate in the proceedings. As a result, the committee recommended her suspension from the Senate for the remainder of the Second Session of the Thirteenth Parliament. In September 2023, the Senate formally adopted the suspension, barring Orwoba from Parliament for 79 calendar days. During this period, she forfeited all privileges, including participation in House activities, committee allowances, and mileage reimbursements. She is expected to return to the House on May 1, 2025. Are nominated senators failing in their mandate? The Kenyan Constitution, under Article 98, stipulates that nominated senators represent special interests such as youth, persons with disabilities, and workers. Their key roles include legislation, oversight, and advocacy. However, governance experts argue that some nominated senators are failing in these responsibilities. Javas Bigambo, a governance analyst, questions whether some of these leaders are fulfilling their mandate: "One wonders, to what extent has Karen Nyamu effectively represented the interests of women in the Senate? Cases of femicide, abductions, and extrajudicial executions have risen-has she tabled a motion or debated these issues meaningfully?" He contrasts Nyamu's performance with Senator Crystal Asige, nominated to represent People Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) "Crystal Asige has justified her nomination by sponsoring a bill addressing disability rights. She is actively advocating for the special interest group she represents," Bigambo said. Governance expert Tom Mboya believes the responsibility for discipline lies with political parties. "Nominated senators are accountable to their party, not constituents. It is up to the party to ensure they uphold integrity and meet the required standards," he stated.He also highlighted a gap in party oversight: "Rarely do we see a party revoke a nomination. If nominated senators engage in unbecoming behaviour, the party must take action instead of granting them immunity." On whether regional balancing contributes to the appointment of errant members, Mboya dismisses the notion. "If a party wants to nominate someone from Kisii, they cannot fail to find a competent candidate. Selection should be based on merit, not just proximity to party leadership," he noted. Need for stricter oversight The Parliamentary Powers and Privileges Act outlines the expected conduct of legislators, emphasising decorum and ethical behaviour. When senators fail to meet these standards, disciplinary measures-including suspension or expulsion-can be enforced. With public trust in politicians dwindling, the conduct of nominated senators like Karen Nyamu and Gloria Orwoba raises critical questions about accountability. If political parties fail to regulate their members, will voters continue to accept leaders who prioritise controversy over service? The answer lies in whether parties choose discipline over favouritism and integrity over chaos.

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