Wamuzi News Ke
In a fiery public showdown, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has forcefully rebutted criticism by his deputy Cleophas Malala over the appointment of Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi as Spokesperson and Head of Secretariat for the emerging “United Opposition” coalition.
At a church gathering in Kipipiri Constituency, Nyandarua County, Gachagua branded Malala’s objections as a misunderstanding of the broader strategy, emphasizing that while youthful leadership is vital, it must be supported by seasoned guidance. “Malala is a very capable young leader,” he declared, “but he misunderstood our intentions. … We chose Dr. Kituyi to lead the secretariat because while we have plenty of Gen Z and Millennial leaders, they still need mentorship and direction.”
Fractures Exposed Ahead of Opposition Launch
The tension dates back to September 5, when Malala publicly rejected Kituyi’s appointment, claiming that the coalition needed a spokesperson with “fresh energy and a forward-thinking approach.” His absence from the key coalition meeting in Nairobi underscored the depth of his dissent.
Malala’s criticism went further: “The United Opposition must embrace youthful, dynamic leadership to move the country forward. Unfortunately, Kituyi does not represent that vision.” The rupture comes just as the coalition prepares for formal unveiling and crucial November by-elections, threatening to weaken its unity.
Gachagua’s Strategic Counterpunch
In response, Gachagua urged calm, defending the choice of Kituyi as critical to balancing youthful zeal with institutional memory. “Leadership is not just about age. Wisdom and experience matter. We must support our young leaders by surrounding them with people who can guide them.”
He reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to democracy and fair nomination processes, while reiterating the goal of fielding a single presidential candidate in 2027 to challenge President Ruto.
By-Election Threats and Departures
The internal rift has already triggered fallout: DCP candidate Duncan Mbui has opted to run as an independent in the upcoming Mbeere North by-election, accusing the DCP of being pressured by coalition partners to cede its right to field a candidate.
Why This Matters
- Bitter public split—Gachagua’s torching of Malala signals deep leadership tensions within DCP and the wider United Opposition coalition.
- Risk to coalition image—As the opposition prizes unity and renewals, this discord hands the ruling camp ammunition to undermine opposition cohesion.
- Strategic imbalance—Malala’s push for youthful leadership clashes with Gachagua’s insistence on experience—a hot button issue as Kenya heads toward crucial by-elections and the 2027 general election.
What Lies Ahead
All eyes now turn to how Malala’s faction will respond: Will they escalate the internal fight or reconcile under Gachagua’s leadership? Will Kituyi’s global credentials strengthen the coalition’s messaging, or merely deepen the generational fault line?
Rapid developments are expected. Let me know if you’d like a follow-up tracking coalition responses, polling shifts, or the role of Kituyi’s appointment in reshaping opposition communications.
