Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly stated that he was not consulted about the removal of Cleopas Malala from his position as the Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). This statement sheds light on the internal conflicts and decision-making processes within the ruling party, raising questions about party unity and governance.
During an interview with Agikuyu vernacular media stations on Sunday, Gachagua expressed his surprise and discontent over the abrupt removal of Malala. “Malala was kicked out at 5 am from the ruling party. I was not called to that meeting that decided to remove him from his seat,” Gachagua revealed. His statement underscores a significant disconnect between the party’s leadership and its deputy president, highlighting a lack of communication and consultation in critical decisions.
The Deputy President’s remarks emphasize the importance of respect and decorum within the ruling party. Gachagua criticized the manner in which Malala’s removal was handled, suggesting that such decisions should be made with proper consultation and respect for the individuals involved. “This should not be happening because this is the ruling party,” he asserted. His comments reflect broader concerns about internal party dynamics and the need for cohesive leadership amidst ongoing national challenges.
Gachagua’s discontent is set against a backdrop of heightened political tensions in Kenya. The country is grappling with various issues, including debates over the finance bill, generational divides, and ongoing disputes involving the presidency. In this context, internal party conflicts, such as the one involving Malala’s ouster, could exacerbate existing tensions and hinder effective governance.
The timing of Malala’s removal and the manner in which it was executed have sparked controversy. The decision was announced on Friday by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), which stated that the changes were effective immediately. The NEC also appointed Vice Chairperson Hassan Omar to take over the Secretary General role on an interim basis. This swift decision and the lack of prior communication with key party figures, including Gachagua, have raised questions about the transparency and inclusivity of the party’s internal processes.
Gachagua has called on President William Ruto to address these internal conflicts and work towards unifying the party. He urged for a collective effort to resolve disputes and focus on national development. “Let us have some respect and decorum because such issues will just bring more battles in the country,” he said. His plea reflects a broader desire for stability and cooperation within the party to better address the nation’s pressing issues.
The UDA’s handling of Malala’s removal highlights ongoing challenges within the party, including managing internal disputes and ensuring cohesive leadership. As Kenya continues to navigate its complex political landscape, the manner in which ruling party decisions are made and communicated will be critical in shaping the country’s political stability and governance.
In conclusion, Gachagua’s revelations about his lack of involvement in Malala’s ouster provide a glimpse into the internal dynamics of the UDA and the broader implications for Kenyan politics. The party’s ability to address these internal conflicts and foster unity will be crucial in navigating the country’s political challenges and advancing its development agenda.
