Aasai

Democracy for Citizens Party Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala has strongly accused President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga of betraying the trust of Kenyans by failing to honour the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) they jointly signed in June 2024. The agreement, which ushered in the formation of a broad-based coalition government, was initially welcomed as a significant political truce aimed at ending state repression and restoring public confidence. However, Malala claims that the pact has since been reduced to a tool of political convenience that has brought no real benefit to ordinary citizens.

Speaking on Tuesday morning, July 22, 2025, during a live interview on a local TV station, Malala launched a direct attack on the President, referring to him as the “father of the nation” who has failed in his duties by enabling a culture of deceit and state intimidation. He alleged that instead of reducing extrajudicial killings, which the MOU specifically pledged to address, such cases have actually surged since the agreement was signed.

“President Ruto and Raila Odinga stood before Kenyans and declared that the era of extrajudicial killings was over. Today, we see increased cases of state brutality, unlawful arrests, and unexplained disappearances. They promised peace and accountability, but what we are witnessing is betrayal of the highest order,” Malala said.

He further criticised Raila Odinga for what he termed as a hypocritical turn in his political stance. Once a fierce government critic, Raila is now accused of quietly aligning with President Ruto in a power-sharing arrangement that Malala claims has only served to secure government positions for a few elite individuals close to the two leaders. According to him, the supposed broad-based government is nothing more than a political comfort zone for allies and family members of the two leaders.

“Raila Odinga, who claimed to stand with the people, is now proposing his own relatives for government roles. Recently, he suggested the appointment of his brother’s son as a presidential advisor, while young people are demanding the trimming of such positions. This is not inclusivity—this is nepotism,” Malala added.

Malala also tore into the government’s economic conduct, citing the widespread distribution of millions of shillings under various “empowerment forums,” which he described as public relations stunts meant to mask the misuse of public funds. He accused top government officials of living lavishly while Kenyans struggle under the weight of a tough economy.

“They promised to end the flashy lifestyles of public officers, but what we are seeing is the opposite. Millions are being splashed around under the guise of empowerment, yet the common mwananchi can barely afford basic needs,” he said.

On the issue of corruption, Malala claimed the MOU included a commitment to eradicate it at all levels of government. However, he lamented that corruption continues to thrive, especially within procurement, hiring, and service delivery systems. He said this is a betrayal to the millions of Kenyans who had hoped for change following the political handshake.

“The MOU wasn’t just a piece of paper—it was a commitment to the people. And if that commitment has now been reduced to rewarding cronies and whitewashing failures, then history will judge them harshly,” Malala warned.

Malalas outburst adds to a growing wave of criticism from opposition leaders, civil society groups, and youth movements who say the government has failed to live up to its promises of reform, transparency, and inclusion. With tensions rising and disillusionment growing, the political pact that once symbolised unity may soon become a symbol of lost hope and betrayal.