United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary-General Cleophas Malala has come out strongly in defense of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political standing, affirming his constitutional right to contest any elective position, including the presidency, as long as he remains innocent in the eyes of the law.
Malala’s comments follow Gachagua’s ongoing visit to the United States, which many observers see as a strategic move to build international support and solidify his political ambitions ahead of Kenya’s 2027 general elections.
Speaking to Citizen TV, Malala emphasized the importance of due process, stating that Gachagua’s eligibility remains intact unless a court of law finds him guilty of any wrongdoing and all appeal mechanisms are exhausted. “As it stands, Rigathi Gachagua qualifies to run for any office,” Malala declared. “Until he is proven guilty and has exhausted all appeal mechanisms, he still enjoys the rights to vie for any office.”
Malala’s remarks come at a time when the political temperature in Kenya is rising, with speculation about 2027 succession politics and internal jostling within the Kenya Kwanza coalition gaining momentum. The former Deputy President’s overseas trip has stirred debate, with critics questioning its timing and intent, while allies describe it as a legitimate outreach to the Kenyan diaspora and global partners.
According to Malala, Gachagua’s U.S. trip is part of a broader strategy to promote his political ideology and mobilize support among Kenyans living abroad. “Gachagua has gone to the U.S. to sell his candidature and mobilize people behind his political movement,” he affirmed, underlining that political engagement outside the country is not unusual and forms part of the democratic process.
Malala’s statements appear to counter claims and narratives from rival political camps that seek to link Gachagua to legal or ethical concerns that could bar him from running. His firm stance also reflects UDA’s strategy to consolidate unity within its ranks and protect its top leadership from what it perceives as politically motivated attacks.
Gachagua, who has been vocal about Mount Kenya region interests and national development, has positioned himself as a key political figure with growing influence. His recent remarks and engagements suggest he may be considering a higher political office, and the U.S. trip is likely a calculated effort to boost his image and broaden his support base.
In a country where politics often blend with courtroom drama and public perception, Malala’s defense of Gachagua underscores the legal principle of presumed innocence and the constitutional protections that come with it. As Kenya inches closer to another election cycle, these developments set the stage for what promises to be a heated and closely watched political contest.
