Deputy Leader of DCP Cleophas Malalah, has issued a stern warning to President William Ruto, accusing him of interfering with the party’s candidates ahead of an upcoming by-election.
Speaking during a rally on Thursday, Malalah expressed frustration at what he termed as attempts by the ruling coalition to undermine DCP’s democratic processes and destabilize its growing influence across the country.
Malalah, a vocal figure within the DCP, claimed that President Ruto’s allies were working behind the scenes to persuade or coerce some of the party’s aspirants into abandoning their political bids in favor of United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nominees.
He argued that such interference not only undermines democracy but also disrespects the will of the people who should be allowed to freely choose their leaders.
“We want to warn William Ruto to stop interfering with our candidates. DCP has its structures, its leadership, and its strategy. We will not allow anyone, however powerful, to hijack our agenda,” Malalah said firmly.
The by-election in question is expected to be highly competitive, with multiple parties keen to test their popularity on the ground ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
DCP, under the leadership of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has positioned itself as a formidable challenger, especially in Mt. Kenya and other strategic regions.
Malalah emphasized that DCP is determined to present strong candidates in every electoral contest and will resist any attempt to intimidate or compromise its members.
He urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure a level playing field, adding that free and fair competition is essential for strengthening Kenya’s democracy.
Political observers view Cleophas Malalah’s remarks as part of the growing friction between DCP and the ruling coalition, as both parties compete for influence in regions previously considered strongholds of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
For now, Malalah’s warning signals a tougher stance by the DCP leadership against what it considers external interference, setting the stage for an intense political battle in the forthcoming by-election.
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