In a shakeup within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) has revoked Cleophas Malala’s appointment as Secretary General. This decision follows a tumultuous period marked by internal conflicts and legal disputes.
Following a NEC meeting on Friday morning, the Committee announced that Vice Chairperson Hassan Omar would serve as the interim Secretary General. The statement highlighted the need to address recent events affecting the party and the broader political landscape in Kenya. The NEC emphasized its commitment to implementing measures that would accelerate the party’s agenda and foster a more inclusive and consultative organization.
Earlier in the week, UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire called for a NEC meeting at Hustler Plaza, which Malala sought to delay through a court order. Despite his efforts, the meeting proceeded, resulting in the interim appointment of Hassan Omar.
The party headquarters witnessed chaotic scenes on Wednesday as supporters of Malala clashed with those backing Joe Khalende, who had declared himself the acting Secretary General. The confrontation escalated into violence, with Khalende injured in the fray. Malala’s supporters, undeterred by the heavy police presence, fervently chanted slogans in support of their leader, insisting that only the legitimate Secretary General be allowed into the offices.
Amidst the turmoil, a letter circulated on social media falsely claiming Malala’s resignation. Malala swiftly disowned the letter, labeling it as propaganda. He reiterated the party’s focus on supporting President William Ruto in fulfilling his campaign promises. “Ignore propaganda. The party is stable and focused on helping President William Ruto achieve his agenda for Kenya. Chama iko Imara,” Malala posted on social media platform X.
Chairperson Mbarire, alongside other NEC officials, condemned Khalende’s unilateral declaration and the ensuing violence, reaffirming UDA’s commitment to lawful conflict resolution.
Khalende accused Malala of sabotaging the party and opposing President Ruto’s broad-based government. He declared himself the new acting Secretary General, citing Malala’s alleged failure to manage party processes and conduct grassroots elections, which led to internal chaos and legal disputes.
Khalende’s faction, identifying themselves as the “founding members of UDA,” criticized Malala for neglecting his responsibilities and supporting the Tawe movement, which they claim contradicts UDA’s objectives. They called for the continuation of grassroots elections and recruitment efforts to support the broad-based government.
Sources within the party suggest that the wrangles are linked to a plot to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Malala, a close ally of Gachagua and the UDA deputy party leader, is seen as an obstacle to this plan. The sources indicate that Khalende is being positioned to replace Malala to facilitate Gachagua’s ousting from the party, a prerequisite for initiating an impeachment motion.
