Deputy Party leader of Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), Cleophas Malala, launched a blistering attack on President William Ruto on August 21, 2025, during a stopover rally along Mombasa Road.

The rally came shortly after the return of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from his 43-day US diaspora tour.

Malala accused the president of turning his back on Kenyan youth, claiming that his leadership has worsened their suffering.

He vowed to spearhead a 10-million-signature petition aimed at internationalising the grievances of Kenyan youth, challenging Ruto’s leadership with sharp rhetoric.

“Sisi Wakenya tunataka tuambie William Ruto tutaweka signatures milioni kumi, hataongea kule kwa wazungu kwa maswala ya kuuwa watu. Aende asiende? Apotee asipotee?” he said.

Charged rally turns chaotic

The atmosphere at Mombasa Road was tense as supporters gathered to receive Gachagua, whose convoy was disrupted by violent clashes. Goons believed to be working at the behest of state operatives pelted stones at Gachagua’s entourage, forcing him to retreat for safety. Police lobbed tear gas to disperse the rowdy crowds, leading to chaos and injuries.

Several journalists covering the procession were caught in the melee, with reports of equipment destroyed during the fracas. Traffic along Mombasa Road was thrown into disarray, with vehicles redirected to the Expressway as officers battled to restore order.

Senator Joe Nyutu echoed Malala’s sentiments, labelling the President “Kasongo” and accusing the state of sponsoring violence against its critics.

“As we speak, there is a helicopter going round here coordinating goons. Shame on you, William Ruto!” Nyutu fumed, promising to sustain resistance through what he described as daily “injections” of opposition.

Opposition plans escalation

Nyandarua Senator John Methu condemned the attack on Gachagua’s convoy and vowed that planned rallies in Nairobi would proceed regardless of government approval. He accused the administration of intimidation, warning that leaders would not be silenced. Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji joined the chorus, cautioning the state against testing their patience.

Gachagua’s return from the US, where he had planned engagements in Seattle, Dallas and other cities, was cut short as he rushed back to lead the Democracy for the Citizens Party’s campaign ahead of the November 27 by-elections. The disruption along Mombasa Road marked a stark contrast to the jubilant reception he received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, underscoring the growing volatility in Kenya’s political landscape.

The events point to deepening divisions within the ruling coalition and rising discontent over high taxation, unemployment and alleged misuse of public resources. The push for a 10 million signature petition represents a bold attempt by the opposition to elevate domestic grievances onto the global stage, signalling an escalation in the standoff with President Ruto’s administration.