The Senate Powers and Privileges Committee, chaired by Speaker Amason Kingi, wielded its disciplinary authority to suspend Senator Orwoba until February of the 2024 due to alleged serious misconduct.
The gravity of the situation lies not only in the suspension itself but also in the severe penalties attached to it. Orwoba’s absence will come at a cost – not only in terms of her sitting allowance but also her privilege to attend committee and senate plenary meetings.
The grounds of Parliament will be off-limits to her, making it a symbolic and tangible exclusion. The ripple effect continues as she faces restrictions on both local and foreign travel – a blow to the extra opportunities MPs often utilize to boost their income.
The suspension sends a clear message that breaches of conduct will not be taken lightly. In a potential road to redemption, the committee’s recommendation outlines a path for Orwoba to rejoin the Senate. Upon the resumption of Senate sessions for the Third Session in February 2024, she would need to extend a formal apology to the Senate, fellow Senators, the Senate clerk, and the Parliament Secretariat. Only then will she be readmitted to the Senate fold.
The charges against Orwoba are multi-faceted, reflecting the seriousness of her alleged actions. The first charge revolves around her unsubstantiated claims of sexual misconduct and discrimination within Parliament. The committee’s findings point to various messages shared by Orwoba on the Senate Business WhatsApp Group, where she made these allegations.Charge Two focuses on the disrespect Orwoba allegedly exhibited towards her fellow Senators, specifically, typing improper WhatsApp texts and disseminating disrespectful information regarding fellow male senators asking her for sexual favours in the Senate Business WhatsApp Group.
The repercussions of this suspension have resonated deeply within the legislative house. Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot expressed the embarrassment felt by the House, acknowledging that this incident marks a historical moment where such severe punishment has been recommended against a sitting Senator.
He emphasized the need to address this collectively and not reduce it to a partisan dispute. Senator Okongó Omogeni from Nyamira shared his thoughts, deeming the penalties as excessive and unreasonable – particularly concerning for a young, female member of parliament who should be nurtured and celebrated.
The fate of Senator Orwoba now hangs in the balance as the House prepares to deliberate on the committee’s report and ultimately decide her future. The implications of this suspension extend beyond her individual case, prompting reflections on conduct, discipline, and the image of the Parliament itself.