Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Sunday used the pulpit at PCEA Miharati Parish in Kipipiri Constituency, Nyandarua County, to chastise Cleophas Malala for opposing the appointment of Dr Mukhisa Kituyi as head of the United Opposition secretariat.
Malala, who serves as the interim deputy party leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), declined to endorse the coalition’s choice of Kituyi, a move Gachagua suggested was rooted in insecurity.
“Niliona alikuwa na wasiwasi ati juu tulichagua kijana, vijana hawana experience,” Gachagua told the congregation, drawing murmurs from the packed sanctuary. He insisted that the coalition was deliberately blending youthful dynamism with experience, arguing that Kituyi’s leadership symbolised inclusivity and forward momentum.
“Experience alone does not guarantee success. It is fresh ideas and determination that drive real change,” he added, urging opposition leaders to stop sidelining young figures under the guise of inexperience.
The remarks come amid fresh debate within the United Opposition over Kituyi’s elevation.
The former UNCTAD Secretary-General and ex-Cabinet minister was tapped to steer the movement’s secretariat in August, a decision seen as both a strategic and symbolic step. Proponents argue Kituyi brings international stature, policy expertise and credibility to the opposition’s push to present itself as a government-in-waiting.
However, Malala’s rejection of the endorsement has highlighted fissures within the coalition, raising questions about unity ahead of the 2027 general election. Observers note that while Kituyi’s return to frontline politics was welcomed by some, others remain wary of his influence and the shifting balance of power within the alliance.
Gachagua’s choice to address the matter from the pulpit reflects his growing role as a disciplinarian figure within the coalition, often calling out members who he believes undermine collective decision-making. His insistence on discipline, respect and cohesion is aimed at preventing fragmentation that could weaken the opposition at a critical moment.
For now, Kituyi’s appointment stands, with the coalition leadership signalling that dissent will not derail its broader agenda. Yet Malala’s stance has exposed underlying rivalries that may prove harder to contain as the opposition positions itself for 2027.
By turning the spotlight on generational balance, Gachagua sought to remind colleagues that the movement’s strength will depend on its ability to merge youthful energy with seasoned experience in the pursuit of power.
