2.8 million people left UDA following DCP launch, claims Malala
Malala blamed the alleged departure on the government’s failure to deliver on its campaign promises to everyday Kenyans.
Cleophas Malala, Deputy Party Leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), stated that around 2.8 million individuals have left the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) since the DCP was launched on May 15, 2025.
During an interview on K24 TV on May 19, 2025, Malala blamed the alleged departure on the government’s failure to deliver on its campaign promises to everyday Kenyans.
"Many people who have now lost faith in the UDA party are leaving. Since we announced our party, around 2.8 million people have left the UDA party. Go check at the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties," he stated.
Malala, who formerly held the position of UDA Secretary-General, explained that the large number of resignations led the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties to limit access to the resignation platform due to concerns over the high volume of defections.
"They have even gone as far as locking the system to prevent further resignations because they are realizing that many people are quitting," he added.
The former Kakamega Senator also criticized UDA for falling short on its economic empowerment promises, pointing out that the much-touted Hustler Fund has offered only limited support that fails to meet the needs of ordinary Kenyans.
"UDA assured people they would be able to access bank loans and start businesses. Instead, what we got was the Hustler Fund, where the smallest loan you can get is just Ksh 500," Malala said.
He questioned the impact of such a small amount, asking, "Honestly, can five hundred shillings really help someone start a business? Can five hundred shillings lift someone from the bottom up?"
Malala also rejected recent accusations that the DCP is a tribal party, emphasizing that the party has a nationwide appeal and a vision that differs from UDA’s.
"Some claim that DCP represents only the Wamunyoro community and is a tribal political group. That is not true. You cannot compare DCP to UDA," he stated.
He pledged that once DCP is formally launched, the UDA will face an even greater exodus of members.
"After our official launch, there won’t be anyone left in UDA," he asserted.
