Cleophas Malala has encountered a major setback after the High Court upheld a Gazette notice issued on August 19, 2024, confirming his removal as Secretary-General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.
In a ruling delivered on Monday, Justice Bahati Mwamuye overturned the earlier decision of the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT), which had temporarily reinstated Malala. The court ruled that the Gazette notice removing him remains valid and enforceable.
“The first respondent’s appeal before the PPDT is hereby terminated and shall not proceed before the tribunal. Any orders previously granted in favour of the respondent are hereby vacated,” the court ruled.
In an additional blow, the High Court nullified all proceedings previously held before the PPDT concerning the matter, effectively blocking any further challenge to Malala’s ouster through that channel.
This ruling solidifies Hassan Omar’s appointment as the legitimate Secretary-General of UDA, strengthening recent changes in the party’s leadership. Omar, a former Mombasa Senator and a key ally of President William Ruto, is now set to lead the party as it gears up for upcoming political battles.
Malala, who had challenged his removal as unlawful and politically driven, now faces an uncertain political future following the High Court’s decision.
