Gachagua Speaks Out on Cleophas Malala’s Sudden Absence
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has finally addressed growing public concern over the sudden disappearance of Cleophas Malala from recent political activities.
Malala is a close ally of Gachagua and serves as the deputy party leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). His absence had sparked intense online debate and political speculation.
Speaking during a radio interview on Sunday, January 18, Gachagua strongly dismissed claims that Malala had abandoned his camp or secretly defected to President William Ruto’s side.
He described such reports as misleading propaganda aimed at weakening the young opposition party. According to Gachagua, there is no disagreement or fallout between him and Malala.
Gachagua explained that Malala fell ill shortly after attending the Malala Super Cup tournament in Kakamega County. He said Malala developed a severe flu and officially requested sick leave to allow him time to recover fully.
The former DP praised Malala as a fearless, principled, and hardworking leader who remains loyal to the party and its vision.
“My deputy party leader Cleophas Malala is sick. He was in Kakamega during the Malala Super Cup, after which he developed a severe flu and requested time off to recover,” Gachagua said.
He added that Malala is expected to resume party duties from Monday once he has fully recovered. Gachagua went further to accuse President Ruto’s political camp of deliberately spreading rumors that Malala and other DCP members were planning to defect. He claimed that some individuals who recently left his camp were never genuine supporters but spies planted to gather information.
Despite the controversy, Gachagua insisted that the DCP party remains solid and united. He said he was already aware of the so-called moles within his ranks and was not surprised by their exit, adding that their departure had no impact on the party’s strength or direction.
Malala has kept a low profile in recent weeks, missing several high-profile engagements attended by Gachagua. His last public appearance alongside the DCP leader was on January 8 during a party tour of Nyeri County.
His absence during the party’s retreat in Mombasa intensified speculation, with some critics suggesting internal wrangles within the newly formed party—claims Gachagua firmly rejected.
The political bond between Gachagua and Malala dates back to a turbulent period in their careers. Gachagua was impeached from his role as Deputy President, while Malala was later removed as Secretary General of the ruling UDA party.
These events pushed the two leaders closer, eventually leading to the formation of the DCP, with Gachagua as party leader and Malala as his deputy.
During the same interview, Gachagua urged residents of the Coast region to rally behind the DCP as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the party nationwide.
He said the opposition coalition is determined to remove President Ruto from power in the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua also addressed accusations that he promotes tribal interests, firmly denying the claims. He said his political stance is about protecting the rights and welfare of all Kenyans, regardless of their background.
Looking ahead to a potential opposition victory in 2027, Gachagua made several promises to Coast region residents. These include resolving long-standing land disputes, boosting the blue economy, and creating more employment opportunities for the youth.
Overall, Gachagua’s remarks were aimed at calming political tension, reaffirming party unity, and countering narratives of division within the DCP as the opposition gears up for the 2027 race.
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