Malala’s UDA Leadership Woes Leave Staff in Financial Limbo

The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is facing severe internal conflicts and power struggles that threaten to tear the party apart, much like the fate that befell the Jubilee Party.

At the center of these disputes is the party’s Secretary General, Cleophas Malala, whose actions have isolated him and sparked controversy within the party’s ranks.

Malala’s ill-fated decision to issue warnings to prominent Cabinet Secretaries and politicians aligned with President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has backfired spectacularly.

Instead of asserting his authority, Malala’s move has ignited further division and animosity within the party.

Adding fuel to the fire are allegations of financial misconduct against Malala with top brass within the party accusing him of overstepping his mandate.

Sources within UDA accuse him of abusing his power as one of the mandatory signatories on the party’s bank account.

Reports indicate that Malala has deliberately delayed salary payments for weeks, using this tactic to control and intimidate staff.

These delays have caused significant hardship for employees, many of whom are now burdened with debts despite their dedication to their work.

There was an agreement for staff salaries to be processed via a standing order from the bank, requiring Malala’s authorization.

However, insiders claim he engaged in unnecessary delays and sideshows, fostering an atmosphere of frustration and fear.

Complaints have mounted, with staff alleging that Malala signs checks for salaries and per diems based on his whims, exacerbating their financial instability.

The manner in which Malala has handled these internal disputes has not only alienated the party’s staff but has also drawn sharp criticism from key UDA figures. Mutahi Kahiga, Oscar Sudi, and Gathoi Wamuchomba have openly questioned Malala’s suitability for his role, labeling him as an overreaching and incompetent leader.

Malala’s heavy-handed approach has not only alienated the staff but also drawn sharp criticism from party stalwarts.

Kahiga publicly questioned Malala’s suitability for his role, describing him as “a square peg in a round hole” and calling for his removal in the next UDA elections.

Kapsabet MP Oscar Sudi referred to Malala as an “elevated MCA trying to be our Raphael Tuju,” while Wamuchomba labeled him a “political loser and UDA intruder” who lacks understanding of the party’s campaign promises

The current turmoil within UDA mirrors the infighting that led to the Jubilee Party’s downfall.

Jubilee’s internal wars necessitated seeking opposition support to pass crucial legislation, and UDA might find itself in a similar quagmire if the factionalism persists.

The ongoing conflicts within UDA highlight the complexities of managing party dynamics amidst power struggles.

Malala’s confrontational approach risks deepening the rifts within the party, potentially leading to its fragmentation

To avoid the fate of Jubilee, UDA must address these internal issues swiftly and decisively by ensuring that leadership disputes do not overshadow the party’s mission.