Aasai

Former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has come out strongly against a court ruling that ordered her to pay Sh10.5 million in defamation damages to Senate Clerk Jeremiah Nyegenye. The decision, issued by Milimani Commercial Court Magistrate Ruguru Ngotho, found that Orwoba’s social media posts accusing Nyegenye of sexual harassment were defamatory, false, and made with malicious intent.

In her ruling, Magistrate Ngotho stated that the remarks made by Orwoba lacked credible evidence and were designed to damage the personal and professional reputation of the Senate Clerk. The court found that the posts, made outside the floor of Parliament, were not protected under parliamentary privilege, thus exposing Orwoba to legal liability. “The defendant’s statements caused the plaintiff embarrassment, psychological suffering, and unwarranted public scrutiny,” the magistrate ruled.

The court also pointed to Orwoba’s conduct during the proceedings, describing it as dismissive, casual, and non-cooperative. It concluded that her failure to demonstrate remorse or produce supporting evidence for her claims justified the award of aggravated damages. In addition to the Sh10 million in general and aggravated damages, the court ordered Orwoba to publicly apologize to Nyegenye across her social media platforms and in at least one national newspaper within 30 days. Failure to do so would result in an extra penalty of Sh1 million.

Despite the setback, Orwoba remained defiant, saying she would not be silenced. Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, the former senator confirmed that she had already filed a notice of appeal and would challenge the decision in a higher court. “I still believe in the integrity of the judicial process, and that’s why I have chosen to appeal. This judgment will not break me,” she declared. She also suggested that the case was politically and institutionally motivated, claiming her efforts to speak against harassment in public office were being punished.

Orwoba, who was nominated to the Senate by the UDA party and later expelled after a six-month suspension over alleged indiscipline and conduct issues, insisted she had no regrets. "God would be ashamed of me if I resigned. God placed me in Parliament for a purpose—to speak truth to power. I will not be shaken by intimidation or fines,” she said passionately.

The former senator also addressed growing calls for her to quit politics, saying she remains committed to fighting for womens rights and institutional reform. She noted that her experience reflects the broader struggles women face when they speak out against powerful figures. “Many women are silenced through shame, lawsuits, or threats. I am willing to carry that burden so that the next generation won’t have to,” she added.

The legal battle between Orwoba and Nyegenye has drawn sharp national attention, sparking debate over the boundaries of free speech, accountability on social media, and the mechanisms available to address harassment allegations. While some civil society groups have expressed concern over the chilling effect the ruling might have on whistleblowers, legal experts argue that public figures must exercise caution and responsibility when making public accusations.

As Orwoba prepares for her legal appeal, the case is expected to shape future conversations around digital activism, gender justice, and defamation law in Kenya. Her legal team is anticipated to file a formal memorandum of appeal in the coming weeks, setting the stage for what could be a high-profile showdown in the appellate courts.