Speaking during a radio interview on Sunday, January 18, Gachagua dismissed claims that Malala had defected from his political camp following his absence from a recent party retreat in Mombasa.
He termed the allegations as mere propaganda aimed at sowing discord within the party’s leadership.
Gachagua explained that Malala was unable to attend the retreat after falling ill while in Kakamega.
According to the DCP leader, Malala developed flu-like symptoms and formally sought sick leave, a move Gachagua said was misunderstood and deliberately misrepresented by critics.
“There is no rift whatsoever,” Gachagua said during the interview. “Cleophas Malala is unwell and took time off to recover.
Any claims that he has abandoned the party or our shared vision are completely false.”
The former deputy president went on to praise Malala, describing him as a bold and courageous leader who remains steadfast in his convictions.
He emphasized that Malala continues to play a key role within the DCP and remains firmly aligned with the party’s leadership and agenda.
Gachagua’s remarks come amid growing political speculation following Malala’s absence from several recent public engagements.
However, his clarification is expected to quell rumors of internal divisions within the DCP as the party seeks to consolidate its support base.
Malala, a former Kakamega senator, has been a prominent figure in Gachagua’s political camp, and his continued association with the party is seen as crucial to its regional and national strategy.