By Debra Rono
Supporters of Cleophas Malala, the Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), gathered at the party’s headquarters on Ngong Road on Wednesday morning.
The demonstrators, who carried placards and chanted pro-Malala slogans, occupied the UDA offices following the announcement by lawyer Joe Khandele, who declared himself the new UDA Secretary General on Tuesaday. Khandele also stated that Malala had been prohibited from performing any duties associated with his role.
In a press conference, the “founding memebers” led by Khalende accused Malala of undermining the party by opposing the broad-based government established by President William Ruto.
Khalende further asserted that Malala had been neglecting his responsibilities as Secretary General and warranted removal from his position.
“Malala has abdicated his role and duty as the SG of the ruling party. The critical role of the SG of the UDA party is the spokesperson of the party; he communicates and initiates meetings on behalf of the party. Clearly, Malala has joined our opponents. He is supporting the TAWE movement and agendas which contradict the ruling party,” said Khalende.
In response, Cleophas Malala has denied the allegations regarding his resignation.
Through a post on his X account, Malala urged his supporters to disregard the resignation letter circulating on social media, labeling it as fraudulent and asserting that the UDA remains stable.
“Ignore propaganda,the party is stable and focused on helping President William Ruto achieve his agenda for Kenya. Chama iko Imara,” Malalah stated.
Since President William Ruto appointed four members from the Azimio coalition as nominees for various cabinet secretary positions to create a broad-based government, a noticeable division has emerged within both UDA and the opposition, with some members opposing this decision.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has vocally expressed his disapproval of the inclusion of ODM members in Ruto’s cabinet, describing it as a it as “betrayal, especially to Gen Z and millennials”.
Narc Kenya’s Martha Karua decided to leave the coalition as communicated in a letter to Azimio’s secretary general Junet Mohammed by Narc Kenya’s acting secretary general Asha Bashir. The party officially announced its withdrawal from the coalition citing “prevailing political developments.”