Cleophas Malala Sets Tough Conditions for Political Reunion with President Ruto

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala has dismissed reports of a rift within the opposition outfit, terming questions over his standing as evidence of an "inferior mind."

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV’s Sunday Live on November 1, Malala denied being sidelined following the growing political footprint of Nyandarua Senator John Methu within the party's Mt Kenya stronghold.

Speculation over internal friction mounted after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua publicly clarified on October 28 that Malala does not speak for DCP. Gachagua noted during a KTN interview that Malala’s endorsement of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna for the opposition presidential ticket was purely personal.

Gachagua explained that official communication rests solely with himself or the party secretary general. However, he defended Malala as a young politician he is mentoring, adding that he sees nothing wrong with his deputy lobbying for preferred candidates alongside leaders like Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka.

Addressing concerns over Methu taking charge of key engagements during Gachagua's recent trip to the United States, Malala stated that responsibilities were assigned based on regional effectiveness.

"What business will I be doing mobilising people in Karatina? I think Methu has a better sense of occasion to mobilise people in Karatina," Malala said. He added that Methu had been tasked to "keep the mountain warm" and executed the role well.

Malala pushed back against assertions that DCP is predominantly a Mt Kenya party, pointing to recent by-election victories elsewhere and claiming growing support in the Maasai community and Kipsigis territory. He asserted his ownership in the outfit, describing himself as a founding member who feels "too superior" to be threatened.

During the broadcast, Malala also outlined strict terms for any potential future cooperation with President William Ruto, demanding a complete overhaul of the Head of State’s administrative approach. He insisted he has no personal issue with Ruto, but strongly opposes his leadership style.

"If he will open his ears and listen to what Kenyans want and prioritise. If he will stop securitising every income, every revenue Kenya gets... If he stops being a dictator," Malala said. "I am not interested in William Ruto’s face... I am interested in the governance style he is exercising on us."

Malala’s political trajectory has seen significant shifts over the past two years. He served as United Democratic Alliance (UDA) secretary general from February 2023 until his appointment was revoked by the party’s National Executive Council on August 2, 2024, amid allegations of insubordination and divergent policy stances. Hassan Omar subsequently replaced him.

The High Court in April 2025 upheld Malala's removal from UDA after quashing earlier orders that had temporarily stayed the decision.

Following his exit from the ruling party, Malala joined DCP upon its launch by Gachagua in May 2025 and was named deputy party leader. In January 2026, Gachagua tasked him with leading the rollout of the party’s 2026 Action Plan.