Former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) chairperson Johnson Muthama has asked for peaceful leadership in the party amid wrangles affecting it currently.
The Kazi ni Kazi party has had to deal with internal conflicts, with some targeting Secretary-General Cleophas Malala. The former nominated senator has been put under pressure, with some factions calling for his ouster.
In reaction, there was a standoff at the party headquarters after unknown people believed to be Malala’s supporters stormed the premises in his support.
Muthama has now called on the party to remain peaceful for a cohesive leadership of President William Ruto.
“What is happening in UDA? Veronica Maina and I left a vibrant and peaceful party in the hands of Cecily Mbarire and Cleophas Malala.
“As party stalwarts, we expected everyone to adhere to the peaceful and cohesive leadership of our party leader. Please let us avoid engaging in activities that could harm our party,” Muthama said in a statement on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, on X.
Genesis of conflicts
Malala, in reaction to calls for his exit, said that the reports that he resigned earlier are propaganda.
“Ignore propaganda. The party is stable and focused on helping President William Ruto achieve his agenda for Kenya. Chama iko Imara,” Malala said.
Earlier, a letter emerged stating that Malala was vacating his position from the UDA party, and this sparked all the reactions that came after.
“This decision comes after a period of deep personal reflection and consideration of the current state of our party and the broader political landscape.
“The political harlotry that has unfolded, including the recent alignment of Raila Odinga with the government through unconventional means, has created an environment of instability and disillusionment. This move, which undermines the democratic process and the principles we stand for, has deeply disturbed me,” the letter read.
UDA’s wrangles come at a time when the president is trying to stabilise his government after the Gen Z demonstrations that forced him to dissolve his cabinet and withdraw the Finance Bill 2024.
In another development, UDA chairperson Cecily Mbarire disowned the self-proclaimed Secretary General Joe Khalende, who has been leading the anti-Malala call.
