Where is DCP deputy party leader Cleophas Malala? Why has he suddenly vanished from the public eye and isn’t being seen with his party leader, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua?
These questions have been swirling as Gachagua ramps up his political comeback through the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). Malala, appointed interim deputy in May 2025, seems to have quietly stepped back, leaving political observers and supporters speculating about a possible fallout or strategic calculation.
Sources suggest Malala is carefully calculating his next moves. His Western Kenya base reportedly rejects the confrontational, attack-driven politics Gachagua has become known for. Using DCP in Kakamega may not secure Malala electoral success, and he appears cautious because Gachagua himself seems rudderless — claiming to be the kingpin of Mt Kenya while offering no presidential plan.
Impeached and ineligible to run, and unwilling to back any other regional candidate, Gachagua denies Mt Kenya voters a choice for the presidency or deputy presidency. His aim appears limited to securing MPs for DCP and negotiating with whoever wins in 2027.
Public Appearances vs Political Isolation
Gachagua has made at least six public appearances this year — a burial in Murang’a on January 9, a Nyeri press briefing, radio interviews on January 10 and 12, and rallies in Gatundu South and Machakos. Yet, his trail of broken alliances is glaring: former boss Uhuru Kenyatta, whom he served as PA, fired him; President Ruto orchestrated his impeachment; and UDA MPs he once championed turned against him.
Leaders like Moses Kuria, Gathoni Wamuchomba have distanced themselves, while bloggers like Wahome Thuku refuse association. Gachagua’s history of public attacks, including targeting Mama Ngina and allegedly withdrawing her security, underscores a vindictive style that repels allies.
No wonder deputies like Malala vanish. Gachagua’s “Wantam” politics may rally crowds, but it devours its own, leaving DCP at risk of imploding as 2027 looms.
