NOMINATED Kenyan Senator Gloria Orwoba, known for her bold stance on menstrual health, has reportedly confirmed her romantic relationship with former Ghanaian president John Kufuor, following widespread speculation. The revelation has stirred public interest after a viral video showed Kufuor gently touching Orwoba’s baby bump, leading to rumours about their connection.
The spark of public interest
Orwoba first captured Kenyan’s attention in 2023 when she wore a white suit stained with blood to parliament, a dramatic move to raise awareness about menstrual health and fight stigma. Her campaign was widely recognised, with billboards promoting support for young girls during their periods. However, it wasn’t until she appeared at Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment hearing that her personal life became the subject of intense public curiosity. Photos of a pregnant Orwoba greeting Gachagua circulated, with many speculating about the identity of her child’s father.
The Kufuor connection
According to Kenyan news outlet The Nairobian, the intrigue deepened when a video emerged showing Kufuor, now in his mid-80s, touching Orwoba’s pregnant belly. This led many to speculate that the former Ghanaian president was involved with the senator. In an interview, Orwoba confirmed the relationship, but was tight-lipped about details, stating, ‘That is me in the video, and that is the former president. We don’t discuss our personal lives,’ The Nairobian quoted her as saying. When asked if Kufuor was the father, Orwoba responded, ‘In that video, the former president was blessing the baby…you can hear the child crying in the background.”
Public speculation and reactions
Orwoba’s relationship with Kufuor was further thrust into the spotlight after she announced the birth of her child on December 5, 2024, alongside Winnie Odinga, daughter of former prime minister Raila Odinga. Social media users quickly speculated that Kufuor could be the father. Orwoba hit back, calling out netizens for ‘acting like the DCI,’ suggesting they were too focused on uncovering the truth behind her private life.
Further fuelling the speculation, Orwoba has shown a strong affinity for Ghana, posting on Facebook to congratulate former Ghanaian President John Mahama on his political comeback in December 2024.
Kufuor’s quiet life after tragedy
Kufuor, who served as Ghana’s president from 2001 to 2009, has kept a low profile since the death of his wife, Theresa, in October 2023. After over five decades of marriage, the former president has largely remained out of the public eye, making Orwoba’s relationship with him even more intriguing.
A controversial senator
Orwoba’s rise to prominence has not been without controversy. In addition to her bold menstrual health campaign, she was suspended from the Senate in 2023 after accusations of making unsubstantiated claims about sexual favours within the chamber. She also faced allegations of disrespecting colleagues, including Senate Clerk Jeremiah Nyegenye. Despite these challenges, Orwoba found reprieve in the courts, with the High Court halting her suspension.
As her reported relationship with Kufuor takes centre stage, Orwoba remains a figure who is as divisive as she is captivating, with her every move continuing to capture the public’s attention.
