Malala condemns Bomet violence as Senator accuses Barchok of disrupting UDA meetings

United Democratic Alliance Secretary General Cleophas Malala. [File, Standard]

United Democratic Alliance Secretary General Cleophas Malala has condemned the disruption of party activities in Bomet County, warning action against those involved.

Malala spoke after Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei led a group of Members of County Assembly in accusing Governor Hillary Barchok of undermining the party's agenda.

The meeting that had brought together officials of the party to plan for grassroots elections slated for December ended prematurely when rowdy youths disrupted it.

Last month, a meeting organized by Bomet Woman Rep Linet Chepkorir (alias Toto) meant to sensitize party members on the coming polls were disrupted in a similar manner, with many accusing the governor of the disruption.

Malala says that the chaos witnessed in the South Rift Region were politically motivated.

"It is unfortunate that the ugly occurrence witnessed is believed to have been politically instigated. Our officers are safe and no injuries were report. We will engage relevant agencies to investigate and bring the perpetrators to book," said Malala.

"We condemn the incident in the strongest terms possible . We further ask our members to embrace peace and tolerance and prepare for the elections as planned," the UDA SG added.

Senator Hillary Sigei accused Governor Barchok of challenging President William Ruto's call for leaders to conduct party sensitisation drives.

"It is bizarre that the governor is opposing and disrupting the same programme ordered by the President. We are now wondering whether he is still in UDA or he has defected to Azimio and is now depopularizing the party in Bomet," said Sigei.

"If Barchok has defected he should come clean and openly say so instead of hiding behind goons. How are sure now that he is not using public resources for his selfish agenda."

Standard Digital could not independently verify claims by the senator.