Malala Exposes UDA Bigwigs in Alleged Plot Against DP Gachagua

Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala has levelled serious accusations against senior UDA officials claiming they orchestrated his removal as the party's Secretary General.

Malala contends this move is part of a larger scheme to facilitate the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who also serves as the UDA's Deputy Party Leader. The controversy stems from Malala's dismissal during a National Executive Council meeting on August 2. In a subsequent press conference on August 15, Malala launched a scathing critique of Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wah and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, whom he alleges were key figures in his ouster. Malala characterizes his removal as a "coup" designed to destabilize the Deputy President's position, following weeks of internal strife within the UDA.

The party's National Chairperson Cecil Mbarire officially revoked Malala's appointment as interim Secretary General with the party issuing a statement confirming the immediate effect of this decision. Malala argues that his close alignment with Gachagua made him a target for those seeking to undermine the Deputy President's authority. He claims that when attempts to turn him against Gachagua failed, his opponents resorted to portraying him as an impediment to their alleged impeachment plot. These allegations have sent shockwaves through the UDA party, particularly as it appears Gachagua himself was unaware of the plan to replace Malala.

The Deputy President has expressed concern that these internal conflicts could potentially damage the party's reputation and standing. Malala is careful to distance President William Ruto and the government from the alleged impeachment plot. Instead, he attributes the motivations to political ambitions related to the upcoming 2027 and 2032 elections, particularly from factions within the Mt. Kenya region. He suggests that these groups are manoeuvring to position themselves advantageously within the evolving political landscape, seeking to maximize their influence and capitalize on shifting alliances.

Despite the upheaval, Malala has chosen a measured response. While initially considering legal action to contest his removal, he has opted to seek redress through the party's Internal Disputes Resolution Committee (IDRC). This decision reflects a desire to address the issue within the party's established framework. Meanwhile, Ichung'wah and Mbarire have remained uncommunicative in the face of Malala's accusations. They have instead called for party unity and advised UDA members to refrain from engaging in premature political activities.