Blow to Cleophas Malala as High Court upholds his removal as UDA Sec-Gen

Cleophas Malala has suffered a setback after the High Court upheld a Gazette notice dated August 19, 2024, that removed him from the position of United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party Secretary-General.

In a ruling delivered on Monday, Justice Bahati Mwamuye quashed the decision of the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) that had temporarily reinstated Malala.

The court emphasised that the Gazette notice effecting Malala’s removal remains valid and binding.

"The first respondent’s appeal before the PPDT is hereby terminated and shall not proceed before the tribunal. Any orders previously issued in favour of the respondent are hereby vacated," ruled the court.

In a further blow to Malala, the High Court also nullified the entire proceedings before the PPDT, effectively closing the door on any attempt to challenge his ouster through that forum.

This decision cements the appointment of Hassan Omar as the legitimate UDA Secretary-General, consolidating the party leadership’s recent changes.

Omar, a former Mombasa Senator and a close ally of President William Ruto, is expected to steer the party as it prepares for upcoming political contests.

Malala, who had contested the move as unlawful and politically motivated, now faces an uncertain political future following the court's decision.