Cleophas Malala, the embattled Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), is facing criticism from Kenyans on social media after revealing that his son and 19-year-old brother-in-law were abducted and tortured.
According to Malala, the two were kidnapped at gunpoint and subjected to six hours of torment as the assailants demanded to know his and his wife’s whereabouts.
Failing to locate the UDA politician, the attackers abandoned the two victims along Thika Road. Malala stated that he had retrieved them safely, although they were deeply traumatised.
Embattled UDA SG Cleophas Malala during a past presser. Photo: UDA party Source: Facebook
While many would expect Kenyans to rally behind Malala in such a trying moment, the reactions online have been less than sympathetic. Social media users have pointed out Malala’s silence during a string of abductions involving Gen Z youth during recent anti-government demonstrations.
Many felt that Malala had turned a blind eye to the plight of those young people and failed to speak out against their abductions at the time.
Critics argue that Malala’s lack of support during the protests has left him isolated in his time of need.
“Where was Malala when Gen Z was being abducted and tortured during the demos? Now that it’s his family, he expects sympathy?” one social media user posted.
Cleophas Malala gestures during a past media presser in Nairobi. Photo: The Star Source: Facebook
The incident comes at a time when political tensions in the country are high, with security concerns escalating for prominent figures like Malala.
However, the reaction to his family’s ordeal highlights the divide between political leaders and the public, as Kenyans demand accountability from those in power.
As investigations into the abduction continue, it remains unclear who orchestrated the attack and why. Malala’s security and political position now seem more precarious than ever, as his critics continue to voice their dissatisfaction with his past actions.
Below are some of the reactions from KoX:
Gael Aluda:Orengo once said, “The government will punish you more than it will punish me.” Sad, but it’s how you guys play politics. Funny.
Erick Mokamba: We are not giving any politicians sympathy for what’s happening to them. Non who called out the rogue government when young people were being abducted and killed.
Chepseron Ian: In luhyia we say if you hide an ogre, it will eat you. You welcomed an ogre to western through Kakamega, you were running around the county like a boy on sildinafil. It’s time for the ogre to eat you and your family.
Raymond Matata: This is a tired scripts by politicians. Kenyans are saying they are not buying sympathy.
