Police issue 72-hour ultimatum to Malala over Kakamega rally chaos

Authorities in Kakamega have given Cleophas Malala, Deputy Party Leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), a 72-hour deadline to appear at the Western Regional Police Headquarters.

Western Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud, addressing the media from his office, stated that the former senator is required to report and provide a statement concerning the disturbances that marred the party’s political rally in Kakamega on Saturday.

"Malala is expected to report to my office at any time. We anticipated his appearance on Monday to give a statement on the events of Saturday, but he failed to show up. The investigation file is active, and he must comply within 72 hours. Should he fail to do so, we will track him down and arrest him anywhere in the country," said Commander Mohamud.

The Western Regional Police Commander noted that DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala failed to inform authorities about the political rally and procession held on Saturday.

"The law is clear while police do not issue permits for public gatherings, anyone planning a political rally or procession must notify us at least three days prior. This allows us to ensure public safety and order, a requirement he did not meet," Mohamud stated.

Mohamud further revealed that the case file against the former senator is ready, and Malala will face charges of inciting public disorder and reckless driving.

"He disrupted public order in town, and we are actively seeking him. He will be prosecuted under the Public Order Act, Cap 56, for causing a public disturbance," the regional police boss stated.

Mohamud added that Malala’s vehicle was violating traffic regulations, driven on the wrong side of the road, obstructing traffic, and operated recklessly, putting other motorists at risk.

"Police had to intervene and stop the vehicle," he said.

He also confirmed that during the disturbance, Malala’s driver was arrested for careless driving.

The vehicle was intercepted, and the driver is currently being held at Kakamega Central Police Station.

On Saturday, May 24, operations in Kakamega town were disrupted for several hours after clashes erupted between police and supporters of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

The chaos began around 11 a.m. when DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala, accompanied by Nyandarua Senator John Methu, was warmly received by a group of youths at Amalemba.

Moments later, police officers who had blocked the road leading into town moved in swiftly, dispersing the crowd and sparking running battles.

In the chaos, officers lobbed teargas into Malala’s vehicle and punctured one of its tyres, prompting him to flee the scene on a motorbike.

A number of supporters managed to reach the town, where Malala publicly denounced the police’s conduct.

"This marks the start of freeing the people of the Western region. For years, we have been exploited by parties that have profited from our support without truly representing us. Today, I am proud to join the party I personally founded," Malala declared.

He accused President Ruto of suppressing opposition, stating, “ODM leader Raila Odinga has been bought and is now part of the government.”

"Ruto is silencing dissenting voices through bribery, but we remain steadfast in standing with the people, listening to their concerns at the grassroots level," Malala added.