In a forceful response, the newly appointed United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Hassan Omar has dismissed allegations made by his predecessor, Cleophas Malala, regarding a purported plot to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Omar’s comments come amid escalating tensions within the ruling party, following Malala’s claims of unfair treatment and accusations against senior party members.
On Friday, Omar issued a strongly worded statement, condemning Malala’s assertions that Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire were orchestrating a scheme to undermine Deputy President Gachagua. Omar characterized these claims as baseless and politically motivated, designed to gain sympathy from the party’s leadership.
“We wish to caution Malala against roping the party and particularly its Chairperson and the Majority Leader in the unfounded claim of Deputy President’s impeachment and seek his sympathies through any other means,” Omar stated.
Omar went on to clarify the circumstances surrounding Malala’s removal from the Secretary General position, emphasizing that the decision was made due to his alleged incompetence. “For the avoidance of doubt, Malala was legally and procedurally removed from office as the Secretary General of UDA, and the same acknowledged and ratified by the Registrar of Political Parties. The office subsequently effected the changes as required of it by law,” he explained.
In his remarks, Omar expressed concern over Malala’s attempts to involve prominent party figures in what he termed “political shenanigans.” He accused Malala of trying to create divisions within the party by invoking the names of Governor Mbarire and Majority Leader Ichung’wah in the context of an impeachment plot.
“We find it gross that he is now casting aspersions on the part of the party’s leadership, regrettably invoking the names of Party Chairperson Governor Cecily Mbarire and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah in the purported impeachment,” Omar added.
He further warned of possible disciplinary action against Malala and any others involved in spreading what he called unfounded claims. “As a party, we find his behaviour unbecoming and inappropriate for former SG Malala to drag her (Mbarire’s) name and that of the Majority Leader in such an unfounded claim of the impeachment of the country’s Deputy President and he must be asked to stop this rave,” Omar noted.
The UDA Secretary General also took the opportunity to criticize Malala’s tenure, describing it as marked by incompetence and discord. “Malala’s colorless stint as Secretary General was characterized by melodrama, toxicity, missteps, discord, ruin; a failed leadership in all aspects. The party, therefore, does not wish to be drawn into endless shenanigans recognizing its status as the party of the President, the nation’s ruling party,” he stated.
Omar’s remarks follow a similar condemnation from the UDA Founders Association, which called for immediate disciplinary action against Malala. The association echoed Omar’s sentiments, highlighting the need for unity and focus on the party’s agenda.
As the internal dynamics of the UDA continue to unfold, the exchange between Omar and Malala underscores the challenges facing the party in maintaining cohesion and discipline among its ranks. With the country watching closely, the ruling party’s ability to manage its internal disputes will be crucial in determining its future trajectory.
In the political landscape, where alliances and loyalties are often tested, the UDA’s response to these allegations will serve as a litmus test for its leadership and organizational strength. As the party navigates this delicate situation, the emphasis on unity and adherence to its core values will be key to its continued success.
