Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala has dismissed claims that he betrayed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Malala rejected allegations that he secretly met Kirinyaga leaders to undermine Gachagua’s political influence.
The claims were made earlier by Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, who alleged that Malala had held a meeting with several Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) from Kirinyaga County. According to Maina, the gathering aimed to organize a political faction to oppose Gachagua within the region.
However, Malala acknowledged that he met the ward representatives but clarified that the discussions focused on preparing them for a meeting with Gachagua. He said the consultations were part of broader efforts to mobilize leaders ahead of engagements with the DCP party leadership.
“Yesterday evening, I had fruitful consultative engagements with elected members of the County Assembly of Kirinyaga ahead of today's meeting with our Party Leader H.E. Rigathi Gachagua,” Malala said in a statement.
He further emphasized that the purpose of the meeting was to strengthen support for Gachagua rather than weaken it. According to Malala, the discussions were meant to encourage unity and attract more leaders into the party.
“We are focused on enhancing political inclusivity as we prepare for the forthcoming general election. Chama iko imara. We scatter none but gather all,” he added.
Photos shared by Malala after the meeting appeared to show that the same MCAs later visited Gachagua at his residence in Wamunyoro. The delegation was among the group of 10 ward representatives hosted by the former deputy president during the meeting.
During the gathering, Gachagua reportedly discussed his upcoming political tour of Kirinyaga County with the MCAs. He also welcomed them to the DCP party and encouraged them to remain firm despite possible harassment or intimidation after declaring their political allegiance.
Maina had earlier claimed that Malala paid some MCAs Ksh20,000 to attend the meeting. She accused him of attempting to form a splinter group within the region and described him as a political mole. The lawmaker also vowed to confront Malala over the allegations.
Malala’s response and the subsequent meeting at Wamunyoro have raised questions about the accuracy of the accusations. The developments have also intensified political tensions within Kirinyaga County as leaders continue positioning themselves ahead of the next General Election.
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