The Senate Drama Over Karen Nyamu’s Choice of Clothes

The Point of Order

The issue was raised by Kitui Senator Enock Wambua. He raised a point of order, directly asking if Senator Nyamu’s dressing violated the rules.

“Mr. Speaker, have you seen Senator Karen Nyamu and the way she is dressed today?”

Senator Wambua was concerned that ignoring the attire could set a bad precedent. He suggested that if the current style was allowed, other members could also appear casually.

“Next time, I’ll walk in with my jacket hanging on my shoulder, and I will demand that you take precedent of what has happened.”

The Speaker’s Ruling

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi intervened swiftly. He ruled that Senator Nyamu was out of order.

The Speaker also brought up another member, noting that Senator Fernandes had escorted her into the chamber.

“In fact, your guilt is as charged.”

While emphasising the need for decorum, Speaker Kingi showed leniency on the punishment. He did not impose a severe penalty, choosing instead to issue a warning.

Incident: Senator Nyamu entered the chamber with one side of her jacket worn and the other hanging loosely.

Action Taken: Speaker Kingi ruled her “out of order.”

Sanction: She received an official warning, avoiding harsher punishment.

Public and Political Reaction

The confrontation quickly gained traction, both within the Senate and across social media. Clips of the exchange spread widely online.

Senator Nyamu, who frequently attracts public scrutiny, became a trending topic once more as Kenyans weighed in:

Critics argued that rules must apply equally to all members, praising the Speaker’s firm stance.

For Senator Nyamu, it adds another layer to her reputation as a polarising figure in Parliament.