0
0
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) is experiencing severe internal conflicts and power struggles that threaten to fracture the party, echoing the fate of 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 ranks.
Malala’s 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.
Compounding the situation are allegations of financial misconduct against Malala, with senior party members accusing him of overstepping his mandate.
Sources within UDA allege he has abused his power as a mandatory signatory 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.
Malala’s handling of 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 Gathoni Wamuchomba have openly questioned Malala’s suitability for his role, labeling him as overreaching and incompetent. Kahiga publicly described Malala as “a square peg in a round hole” and called for his removal in the next UDA elections. Sudi referred to Malala as “an elevated MCA trying to be our Raphael Tuju,” while Wamuchomba called 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 predicament if 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, ensuring that leadership disputes do not overshadow the party’s mission.
