Senator Orwoba Urges Critics to Offer Solutions

Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has called on those criticizing the government to be part of the solution rather than mere spectators of discontent. Her remarks come amid a wave of government criticism from various factions, reflecting a growing sentiment that criticism alone is insufficient for progress.

“This is my issue, criticize with an alternative,” Senator Orwoba stated during an interview on Spice FM on January 14, 2025. “I am not trying to say this person is right or that person is wrong. You have to choose to be part of the solution; you can't choose to consistently be part of the criticism.”

Orwoba expressed particular admiration for the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), a party historically known for its opposition to the government. She acknowledged their approach: while they have been vocal critics of various government initiatives, they were willing to be part of the solution. “We call this political growth,” she noted, recognizing the constructive role that criticism can play when paired with proposed solutions.

The senator highlighted the importance of this dynamic in advancing the agenda for Kenya Kwanza, the ruling coalition. “I have so much respect for ODM because, as the biggest critics of the government, they have challenged every aspect of our proposals from affordable housing to healthcare yet they also came on board.”

Orwoba pointed out a missed opportunity for collaboration when the government reached out to the youth, suggesting that perhaps the president might need to better understand their perspectives.

“When we said to the youth that our president might be too old to understand them, we invited the opposition to come on board,” she explained. “However, they repeatedly refused. I think this refusal stems from an era where it is considered ‘woke’ to simply criticize.”