A faction within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, led by Lawyer Joe Khalende, is calling for Cleophas Malala's removal from his position as Secretary-General.

The group, identifying as the 'founding members of UDA,' accuses Malala of undermining the party and the Broad-Based Government formed by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Khalende declared himself the new acting Secretary-General, stating that Malala is no longer authorized to perform any functions within the ruling party. Khalende criticized Malala, the former Kakamega Senator, accusing him of acting as an agent for UDA's opponents to destabilize the party.

PHOTO | COURTESY Cleophas Malala

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Khalende emphasized that Malala has neglected his duties, which include acting as the party's spokesperson and organizing meetings. He accused Malala of supporting the TAWE movement, which contradicts the party’s agenda, and opposing forming a broad-based government.

Khalende asserted, "Malala has gone against our party leader. He is no longer the SG of the UDA party."

The group also blamed Malala for mismanaging party processes and causing chaos during grassroots elections. They claimed that the decision to remove Malala had been discussed for months and that all party organs were aware of the change. Despite issuing a show-cause letter to Malala, he allegedly obstructed the process.



Khalende assured the group would continue supporting the new broad-based government and expediting grassroots elections. He highlighted plans to recruit and rebrand to attract new ODM members through the newly formed partnership. "This is the best opportunity for us UDA members to extend an olive branch to our brothers in ODM and work together in government to uplift the lives of Kenyans," Khalende stated.

This internal shake-up within UDA underscores ongoing tensions and strategic realignments as the party navigates its political future.