Former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General, Cleophas Malala, resurfaced on Sunday, September 22, 2024, claiming that he remains the legitimate holder of the position despite his ouster months ago.
Speaking during a church service in Thika, where he appeared alongside Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Malala reiterated that the Registrar of Political Parties still officially recognizes him as the UDA Secretary-General, dismissing the appointment of Hassan Omar as unlawful.
Malala's removal followed a chaotic confrontation at the party’s Nairobi headquarters, after which Omar was appointed to replace him.
However, Malala emphasized that his removal was illegitimate and that he continues to be committed to UDA’s original manifesto and promises made to the Kenyan electorate during the 2022 General Elections.
During his address, Malala expressed concern that the party was straying from its core principles and promises. He vowed to bring UDA back on track, maintaining that the party must remain true to the vision it laid out in 2022.
“I am still the party’s Secretary General according to the Registrar of Political Parties Office, and I am committed to ensuring we return to our manifesto,” he stated.
Malala also weighed in on the ongoing tensions within the party, particularly regarding the impeachment rumors surrounding Deputy President Gachagua.
He expressed solidarity with Gachagua, arguing that those behind the impeachment plot aimed to destabilize the party, which could have severe consequences for President Ruto's future.
Malala claimed that the impeachment effort was being driven by opposition figures, including Minority Leader Junet Mohammed and Homabay MP Peter Kaluma. He warned President Ruto to avoid supporting this move, suggesting that doing so could set the stage for his own downfall ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
“Mr. President, you could think you are impeaching Gachagua, but you may unknowingly begin the course of your own impeachment,” Malala warned. He emphasized that any attempt to undermine Gachagua would be seen as betrayal by the party's supporters, particularly in Mount Kenya, where Gachagua enjoys considerable backing.
In his speech, Malala reminded the president and the audience of Gachagua’s sacrifices during the 2022 campaign period, including his detainment by police. He urged Ruto to intervene and halt any efforts to impeach his deputy, calling for unity within UDA to ensure the party remains strong and focused on its mandate.
Malala also hinted at external forces working to dismantle the UDA party, adding that such efforts would only serve to weaken the government and embolden its opponents.
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