Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly addressed the mysterious absence of his close ally, Cleophas Malala, dismissing swirling rumours of defection and internal conflict within their Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).
Speaking during a radio interview on Sunday, Gachagua revealed that Malala, the deputy party leader, is simply unwell. He explained that Malala developed a severe flu while in Kakamega for the “Malala Super Cup” and had requested time off to recover.
“My deputy party leader Cleophas Malala is sick,” Gachagua stated, commending him as a bold and courageous leader who stands by his convictions. He firmly denied any rift between them and dismissed the speculation as propaganda engineered by President William Ruto’s camp.
Malala’s low profile had sparked intense debate online, especially after he missed a key party retreat in Mombasa. The public absence led to speculation of wrangles in the seven-month-old party, which was formed after both Gachagua and Malala were ousted from their positions in the ruling UDA party.
Gachagua insisted the DCP remains strong, alleging that allies who recently defected to President Ruto’s camp were actually “spies planted by the president.” He claimed he had always known they were moles and their departure was inevitable.
The former Deputy President also used the opportunity to make a direct appeal to Coast region residents, promising that if the opposition clinches power in 2027, they would address longstanding issues including land, the blue economy, and employment opportunities. He framed the upcoming political battle as a united opposition’s goal to oust President Ruto.
Gachagua further rejected claims of favouritism toward his own community, maintaining that his recent political stance is about defending the rights of every Kenyan.
He assured supporters that Malala, whom he described as his “most trusted soldier” and “very hardworking,” would rejoin party activities as soon as he recovered, potentially as early as Monday. The last time the two were seen together publicly was during a DCP tour of Nyeri County on January 8.
