Tensions within Kenya’s opposition are deepening as Deputy Party Leader of Democratic Party (DCP), Cleophas Malala, accused DAP-Kenya’s George Natembeya of working with the government to create divisions ahead of upcoming by-elections.
Addressing residents in Kakamega on Friday, November 14, Malala claimed Natembeya had been allegedly bribed by President William Ruto’s administration to influence electoral outcomes in favor of pro-government candidates.
“President Ruto’s government has seen that we are going to win all these by-elections and has gone ahead to bribe one of us by the name George Natembeya,” Malala stated.
According to Malala, Natembeya, who is also a governor, traveled from Trans Nzoia to Kisa East to disrupt opposition campaigns and sow discord between DCP and DAP-Kenya members. He described Natembeya as “double-minded” and a “mole within the opposition,” asserting that the former police officer had not transitioned to a committed political leader.
“The government directed him to disrupt the campaigns of the opposition in Kisa East so that the government could win. Natembeya came here to divide us,” Malala added.
The allegations come just days after DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa dismissed claims of secret dealings with the government ahead of the 2027 elections. Speaking at a rally on November 12, Wamalwa emphasized that any discussions with President Ruto would involve all opposition leaders and reaffirmed their commitment to unseat the current administration.
“I would like to tell Gachagua that if Ruto calls us, we will inform him that Gachagua is our spokesperson,” Wamalwa said, urging Kenyans not to fall for government tactics aimed at weakening opposition unity.
As the by-elections approach, these accusations highlight growing distrust among opposition parties, signaling potential fractures that could influence the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
