Kenya Insights

Tag: UDA wars

  • How Cleophas Malala Fumbled His UDA Job

    How Cleophas Malala Fumbled His UDA Job

    Rapid ascension, blunders, and controversy have marked Cleophas Malala’s political journey.

    His recent ouster as Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is a testament to Kenyan politics’ complex and often treacherous nature.

    This article delves into the political reasons and intrigues behind Malala’s rise and fall.

    It also explores the roles of key players like President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.

    Cleophas Malala

    The Rise and Fall: The Political Intrigues Behind Cleophas Malala UDA Ouster

    Malala’s political career began as a first-time Member of County Assembly (MCA), quickly rising to the position of Kakamega Senator.

    Despite this setback, Malala’s political maneuvering led to his appointment as UDA’s acting Secretary General in February 2023, replacing Veronica Maina, who had been nominated to the Senate.

    Political Blunders and Missteps

    Malala’s tenure as Secretary General has been anything but smooth. His lack of longstanding relationships within UDA and his reputation for being a political turncoat undermined his position.

    Many UDA members viewed him with suspicion, questioning his loyalty and ability to represent the party effectively.

    This skepticism was amplified when Nyeri Governor Kahiga Mutahi threatened Malala with impeachment, highlighting the deep-seated mistrust within the party ranks.

    Malala’s decision to leave Mudavadi’s Amani National Congress (ANC) for UDA was seen as a strategic blunder.

    Instead of consolidating his base and gaining experience, Malala overreached, believing his rapid rise could continue unabated.

    His failure to secure the Kakamega gubernatorial seat should have been a lesson in political patience and prudence.

    The Intrigues Behind the Ouster

    The political dynamics within UDA and the broader Kenyan political landscape played a significant role in Malala’s downfall.

    President Ruto and Deputy President Gachagua are reportedly feuding, with each vying to consolidate power and influence.

    Malala’s alignment with Gachagua put him at odds with Ruto’s camp, particularly with figures like Musalia Mudavadi, who hails from the Luhya region—a crucial battleground in the 2027 and 2032 elections.

    Both Mudavadi and Gachagua have aspirations to succeed Ruto in 2032, making the Luhya region a critical political chessboard.

    Malala, allied with Gachagua, was seen as a tool to undermine Mudavadi’s influence in the region.

    This political maneuvering did not sit well with Ruto’s loyalists, who viewed Malala’s actions as a threat to the party’s unity and strategic goals.

    The Role of President Ruto and His Allies

    Cleophas Malala

    President Ruto’s inner circle, often referred to as “Ruto’s boys,” had the power to influence party decisions and appointments.

    This group orchestrated Malala’s removal to neutralize the internal threats and maintain control.

    They appointed Hassan Omar, a political figure from Mombasa, as the interim Secretary General, strategically aiming to extend Ruto’s influence in a region traditionally dominated by ODM.

    Cleophas Malala Sabotage and Court Battles

    During Malala’s tenure, accusations of sabotaging the broad-based government initiative announced by President Ruto marred his reputation.

    President Ruto is currently collaborating with opposition chief Raila Odinga on a project aimed at national unity and development.

    This collaboration, seen as contrary to Malala’s actions, further alienated him from the party leadership.

    The climax of the internal party conflict came when UDA’s National Executive Committee (NEC) revoked Malala’s appointment as Secretary General.

    This decision came despite a court order issued on Thursday, stopping the NEC meeting.

    Malala’s petition to the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal highlighted the legal and procedural battles within the party, with Malala accusing UDA Chair Cecily Mbarire and the party of unlawful actions.

    The Aftermath and Political Fallout

    The NEC’s decision to appoint Hassan Omar as the interim Secretary General was a strategic move to stabilize the party and project unity.

    However, the internal conflicts and legal battles have exposed the fragile nature of political alliances and the ruthless quest for power within Kenyan politics.

    Cleophas Malala political future remains uncertain

    His rise, marked by ambition and miscalculation, serves as a cautionary tale for politicians who seek rapid advancement without solidifying their base and building trust within their parties.

    As the 2027 and 2032 elections approach, the power struggle within UDA and the broader political landscape will undoubtedly intensify, with key players like Ruto, Gachagua, and Mudavadi maneuvering for dominance.

    Wrapping Up

    Cleophas Malala’s journey from MCA to the national political stage is a story of ambition, blunders, and the harsh realities of Kenyan politics.

    His ouster as UDA Secretary General underscores the intricate and often brutal nature of political maneuvering.

    As Kenya heads towards future elections, the lessons from Malala’s rise and fall will resonate with those who seek to navigate the complex and perilous world of politics.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oGv-XLeI14

  • Inside UDA’s Showdown for Supremacy and Bitter Political Battle in Luo Nyanza

    Inside UDA’s Showdown for Supremacy and Bitter Political Battle in Luo Nyanza

    In the heart of Luo Nyanza, a fierce political showdown is brewing within the ranks of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), pitting President William Ruto’s pointmen against each other.

    At the forefront are two key figures: PS Raymond Omollo is leading UDA A, and ICT CS Eliud Owalo is spearheading a seemingly lackluster UDA B campaign.

    The rift between their camps mirrors the broader struggle for dominance within the region, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

    Luo Nyanza

    The President’s Point-man in Luo Nyanza

    UDA A, under the stewardship of PS Raymond Omollo, appears to be gaining traction with well-oiled machinery and significant media coverage.

    Meanwhile, UDA B, headed by ICT CS Eliud Owalo, is struggling to match the vigor and visibility of its counterpart.

    The disparity is glaring, with Owalo’s team accused of lacking energy and warmth, overshadowed by the dynamic presence of Omollo’s camp.

    The contrast is stark in the composition of the teams

    Omollo’s allies boast seasoned politicians like Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda, former Nairobi Governor Dr. Evans Kidero, and Odoyo Awidi among others.

    But notable figures on Owalo’s side include former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumo, Hon. Elisha Odhiambo, and many individuals perceived as mere opportunists with eyes on government tenders.

    The organizational prowess of Interior CS Raymond Owalo’s team further highlights the disparity.

    With notable figures like Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda actively engaging in community initiatives, such as distributing aid during floods, Owalo’s team appears to be overshadowed, struggling to maintain relevance.

    Central to Omollo’s success is his ability to rally political heavyweights in South Nyanza, including the influential Governor Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay County.

    Omollo’s rise to prominence within UDA is attributed to his pivotal role during the Kenya Kwanza campaigns, earning him the president’s favor and trust.

    One defining moment was Omollo’s leadership during Ruto’s inaugural visit to Homa Bay on October 2, marked by a fundraiser at the African Inland Church (AIC).

    This event marked a significant political milestone, with Omollo’s prominent role signaling a shift in dynamics within Luo Nyanza’s politics.

    Powerful Office

    The significance of Omollo’s position cannot be understated, as it marks the first time in 31 years that a Luo has held such a prominent role within the government, reminiscent of Hezekiah Oyugi’s tenure as Permanent Secretary during the late President Daniel Arap Moi’s era.

    Oyugi’s departure in 1991 left a void that has only now been filled by Omollo’s ascent, underscoring the seismic shift occurring within Luo Nyanza’s political landscape.

    Omollo’s strategic positioning within UDA not only symbolizes a shift in power dynamics but also heralds a new era of political influence for the Luo community.

    As tensions escalate between the rival factions, Owalo continues to assert his authority as President Ruto’s pointman in Luo Nyanza, despite Omollo’s undeniable dominance.

    The power struggle between the two camps is palpable, with Owalo’s camp refusing to concede ground in the face of Omollo’s rising influence.

    In conclusion, the bitter wars raging within UDA’s ranks in Luo Nyanza paint a vivid picture of the high-stakes political landscape in Kenya.

    With Omollo emerging as the president’s darling and Owalo clinging to his claim to supremacy, the battle for control intensifies, leaving no room for complacency in the pursuit of political dominance.

    As the dust settles, only time will tell which faction will emerge victorious in this fierce contest for power and influence.