Split in UDA as Khalwale castigates Malala over calls to dissolve ANC, Ford-Kenya

UDA acting secretary general Cleophas Malala (centre) received defectors from ANC on September 2, 2023. [Brian Kisanji, Standard]

The officials distanced themselves from Malala's advocacy to fold parties terming the move 'disrespectful and detrimental to coalition unity'.

Solomon Murutu, the secretary in Tuwan, expressed discontent with Malala's statement saying: "We consider calls to dissolve parties as disrespectful from Malala, a former member of ANC. He is trivializing parties that collaborated with UDA to establish the Kenya Kwanza government. This undermines the spirit of unity."

Murutu further urged Malala to refrain from making unfounded statements that could undermine the coalition, emphasizing that the current government's position would not have been attained without the collaboration of the ANC and other parties.

Despite Malala's repeated calls for ANC and Ford Kenya to dissolve and merge with UDA, ANC officials have remained steadfast in their commitment to expanding the outfit's membership in preparation for the 2027 General Election, where the party said it plans to field candidates in various positions, except presidential.

Kevin Kubumba, the youth leader, affirmed: "We are actively enlisting new members into the party. This serves as a demonstration to our members that we have no intention of disbanding as our party's goals extend beyond the current generation."

Area ANC chairman Herman Malavi dismissed Malala's remarks, suggesting that Malala's enthusiasm for his current position might be clouding his judgment, leading him to believe he holds a superior role over Kenya Kwanza affiliate parties.

These statements were made by the officials on the sidelines of an initiative aimed at profiling widows in the county to create a database that can support programs.

Additionally, they called on the government to provide social support to widows, highlighting their commitment to addressing crucial issues affecting the community.