DCP deputy leader Cleophas Malala has rejected claims of a fallout with Rigathi Gachagua.
The DCP deputy leader says he focused on Western Kenya and grassroots organising while John Methu handled Mount Kenya.
Cleophas Malala denies rift claims involving DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, saying regional assignments explain his absence from some party rallies. The Democracy for the Citizens Party deputy leader also rejected suggestions that the party had sidelined him.
Speaking during a television interview, the former Kakamega senator said he remained active while Gachagua visited the United States. However, his work focused on Western Kenya rather than the rallies taking place in Mount Kenya.
Malala denies rift over party roles
Malala said he and DCP Secretary General John Methu shared responsibility for keeping the party active during Gachagua’s absence. He handled the Western region, while Methu, the Nyandarua senator, took charge of Mount Kenya.
He therefore rejected interpretations that Methu alone had taken charge of party affairs. Malala argued that the regional division allowed each leader to concentrate on mobilisation in their assigned area.
Meanwhile, he said his work included building grassroots structures from polling stations to county offices. He also cited work on the party manifesto among activities he carried out away from media attention.
Malala maintained that this behind-the-scenes work demonstrated his continued involvement in DCP. His explanation challenged claims that he held the deputy leader’s title without an active organisational role.
Sifuna support draws Gachagua’s response
The dispute also follows Malala’s public support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s presidential bid. While Gachagua was abroad, Malala rallied support in Western Kenya for the Linda Mwananchi Movement and endorsed Sifuna.
However, Gachagua also has presidential ambitions. After returning from the United States, he distanced himself and DCP from Malala’s remarks, describing them as personal views.
Gachagua said Malala could not speak on behalf of either the party or its leader. He also compared his deputy to Ruto.
Despite those exchanges, Malala insisted that his position within DCP remained secure and that he was happy in the party. He stressed his status as a founding member, distinguishing DCP from other parties he had joined previously.
