Former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Wakhungu Malala has made serious claims about the state of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. According to him, everyone in the party is simply acting.
He made this statement while responding to Kenya Kwanza digital strategist and blogger Dennis Itumbi, who has often been viewed as the face of UDA propaganda online.
Malala did not hold back as he exposed what he sees as a fake show within the ruling party, suggesting that people are no longer being genuine but are playing roles just to please those in power or protect their positions.
This bold statement comes at a time when the government has allegedly been using the criminal justice system to silence critics and creatives.
The most recent example involves Malala himself, who is reportedly being targeted by the police for participating in a drama production. It has been reported that five vehicles filled with DCI officers were sent to arrest him for writing a script that was approved and featured in the National Drama Festival in Nakuru.
This action has shocked many Kenyans and raised serious questions about freedom of expression and creativity in the country.
The play in question is titled Echoes of War, a satirical piece that explores the culture of lies and deceit that has become common in the current administration.
Those who understand literature know that satire is not a crime it is a creative way to critique society and promote conversation. Instead of addressing the real issues raised in the play, authorities have chosen to go after the messenger.
But as Malala rightly said, arresting him will not stop the message from spreading. In fact, it will only bring more attention to the play and what it represents.
Looking back at the 2022 elections, President William Ruto knew very well that the Central Kenya region would never vote for Raila Odinga. So, he made sure that he was the only alternative to Raila by eliminating any strong political competitors from the mountain.
With no real choice left, many Kikuyus chose Ruto, not because they believed in him fully, but because they feared a Raila presidency.
It was a political calculation, better the devil you know than the one you don’t.Now, as 2027 approaches, many Raila supporters are facing the same situation. This time, they feel like they are being forced to either back Ruto again or allow the presidency to return to the Kikuyu community.
According to some, including the voice behind this statement, they would rather stick with Ruto no matter how flawed he may be than allow another Kikuyu presidency.
This is not about tribal hatred, they argue. It’s simply about political preference and balancing power. Just like the Kikuyu community made their choice in 2022, others now want their turn in 2027.
The growing frustration, the crackdown on artistic expression, and the tribal tensions ahead of 2027 all point to a country struggling with democracy and truth.
If people can no longer express themselves through art, literature, or political opinion without facing police action, then the future of free speech in Kenya is in danger.
Cleophas Malala’s case might just be the beginning of many more battles between the state and those who dare to speak truth to power.