In a stunning political development, former Senator and UDA SG Cleophas Malalah has issued a directive calling for the dissolution of all affiliate parties and their members to join the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
This announcement comes as a seismic shift in Kenyan politics, potentially reshaping the country’s political landscape.
In a press conference held at Senator Malalah’s Mushikulu rural home in Kakamega County, the UDA Secretary-General outlined his reasons for this unexpected move.
“A party cannot have a national image when all the officials come from the same region, tribe and neighbourhood,” said Malalah.
Malala emphasized the need for a united front ahead of the upcoming general elections, stating that “Kenya deserves a strong and cohesive outfit to better the future of Kenyans.
The senator further argued that a fragmented opposition would be unable to effectively counter the ruling party’s influence.
The Kenya Kwanza leader’s decision has sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of the UDA and Senator Malalah view this as a strategic masterstroke, potentially consolidating opposition forces and increasing their chances in the upcoming elections.
UDA Harvests More in Western Kenya.
This afternoon, on behalf of my Party, I had the pleasure to receive defectors and delegates from Vihiga county to the UDA Party at my Mushikulu rural home, Kakamega County .
The team was led by Sabatia MP Hon. Clement Sloya and CAS nominee⤵️ pic.twitter.com/f37W7CEQmd— Cleo Malalah (@Cleophasmalala) September 1, 2023
However, critics argue that this move may lead to the loss of unique identities and values held by the affiliate parties.
Political analysts have begun speculating about the potential ramifications of this directive on the UDA’s strength.
If all affiliate parties follow suit, the UDA could become a formidable political force, posing a serious challenge to the ruling party. However, the process of merging different parties into a cohesive unit may also present its own set of challenges.
As Kenyan politics continue to evolve, the next few weeks will likely bring further clarity regarding the fate of the affiliate parties and their potential merger with the UDA.
With the general elections drawing closer, all eyes will be on Senator Malalah and the opposition’s efforts to unite in their bid to challenge the status quo.
The list of defectors from various constituencies in Vihiga County includes:
Vihiga:
1. Ken Vitisia
2. Amara Elisha
3. Masini Wycliffe
4. Obedi Chunguli
Hamisi:
5. Nickson Butiya
6. Dauglus Beru
From Sabatia:
7. Khalid Balala
8. Gladys Analo
From Emuhaya:
9. Ollinga Jairus
10. Luanda
11. Butiko Kennedy
12. Alukhutsa Peter
This wave of defections to the UDA Party comes at a strategic time as the party is actively increasing its influence in the Western Kenya region.
President William Ruto’s successful development tour in the area has been credited for attracting new members and supporters to the party.
The defectors praised President Ruto’s development plans for Western Kenya, recognizing their potential to bring economic growth and create opportunities for the people in the region.
This move underscores the UDA’s commitment to being a national party open to new membership and ideas that strengthen its mandate.