Leon Major Malala, the son of Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) deputy party leader Cleophas Wakhungu Malala, has declared his interest in vying for a Member of Parliament seat in the upcoming 2027 General Election.

Leon announced while speaking during the launch of the DCP Youth League Nyeri Chapter on Saturday, April 12, 2026. The event was graced by his father, who represented party leader Rigathi Gachagua.

State of the nation

The young Malala, whom many say mirrors his father’s bold speaking style, stated that his decision to venture into politics is not influenced by his family background but rather driven by what he termed as poor leadership currently being witnessed in the country.

“I am not a politician; I do not aspire to be one. I have never dreamt of being a politician, but I am going to vie for an MP seat. It’s not because of my dad but because of the kind of leadership this country has offered.”

He took issue with challenges facing the youth, sharply criticising what he described as rising cases of abductions and extrajudicial killings. Leon questioned the state of leadership, wondering why such incidents continue to occur under the watch of the country’s top leadership.

He further urged the youth to take an active role in shaping the country’s future, emphasising that they have both the numbers and the ability to bring about meaningful change.

Using a software analogy, Leon likened the country to a system that requires regular updates to remain efficient. He called for a complete overhaul of Kenya’s leadership, advocating for the election of young leaders with fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the nation’s challenges.

Leon’s rise to fame

Little was known about Leon Major Malala until his father was arrested on April 10, 2025, over his controversial Echoes of War play.

It was then that Malala’s son came out with a group of Gen Zs, carrying placards to address the issue. This was the first time he hit the limelight.

He went ahead to condemn the arrest and demanded his father’s release. One could easily tell that he is a future politician, seemingly stepping into his father’s shoes.

The next time Leon appeared publicly was during his father’s birthday party on Monday, June 30, 2025, a private event with only a few people in attendance.

Together with his father, they appeared in matching outfits, all wearing the same smiles, dimples pressing into their cheeks. Once again, Leon delivered a profound speech that left the small crowd in a frenzy, taking a political stance similar to his father’s and boldly declaring that the current president would only serve one term.

During the same function, Cleophas Malala rejected the idea of individuals above 35 years vying for MCA seats, stating that such positions should be reserved for young people.