Malala proposes policy change to bar old people from contesting for MCA seats
By Mabonga Makhanu, April 12, 2026Democracy for Citizens (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala has suggested that Member of County Assembly (MCA) seats should be reserved for young people under the age of 35.
While speaking during the launch of the DCP Party Youth League Forum on Saturday, April 11, 2026, the outspoken former senator called for a policy or mindset change that would see MCA seats reserved for young people as a launch pad into politics.
“I would suggest that if there could be a policy change or a mentality change, all these 1450 ward reps’ seats be preserved for young people,” Malala stated.
Malala stated that, in his case, he has never had a reason to support an older person for an MCA position. He added that he is intentional about ensuring that MCA seats are reserved for young people.
“I have no reason to support any old man for the MCA position. I am very intentional that MCA slots be reserved for young people, because it’s the lowest political seat and it’s an incubation, where leadership is nurtured,” Malala explained.
He described the MCA position as an avenue where youths can be nurtured and mentored into leadership. According to him, as one moves higher in leadership, he questioned the double standards where young people are encouraged to enter leadership, yet the lowest elective positions that should belong to them are often taken by older individuals.
Citing his own experience, Malala said his time as an MCA shaped him into a formidable leader, which later enabled him to assume Senate leadership more quickly, as he had already been moulded during his tenure in the Kakamega County Assembly.
He further stated that MCA positions should not become a retirement scheme for older individuals, arguing that people who have already served in various public roles should not retire into county assemblies as part of their exit strategy.
Malala’s son’s political aspirations
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 ‘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.”