Cleophas Malalah Criticizes Ruto’s Legacy, Questions Development Projects

Former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malalah has launched a scathing attack on President William Ruto, questioning the kind of legacy he will leave behind if he continues to focus on what he described as minor and meaningless projects.

Comparing Ruto to Past Presidents

Speaking during a church service on Sunday, April 6, 2025, Malalah drew comparisons between Ruto and his predecessors, emphasizing that past presidents had tangible development records that left lasting impacts on Kenya.

He praised former President Mwai Kibaki for introducing free primary education and constructing the Thika Superhighway, which significantly boosted Kenya’s economy and infrastructure.

“Mheshimiwa Mwai Kibaki wakati wake alileta free primary education, yeye ndiye alileta Thika Super Highway, tunamkumbuka Kibaki for stabilising our economy.”

Malalah also highlighted former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s achievements, including the Nairobi Expressway, Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), and Mau Mau Road—projects he said defined Uhuru’s legacy.

Questioning Ruto’s Development Record

Malalah questioned what legacy Ruto is building in his third year in office, arguing that there is little to show in terms of meaningful development. He mocked the president for launching bedsitters and taking photos with children in small houses, suggesting that Ruto is lowering the standard of presidential achievements.

“Lakini sasa Kasongo, tutamkumbuka kwa nini? Iko barabara ameunda kweli? Kila rais ako na legacy yake. We want to challenge Ruto; this is your third year in power, wewe unafanya nini? Kazi yako ni kuenda kulaunch bedsitters.”

Recent Apology to Luhya Community

Malalah’s remarks come just a week after he publicly apologized to the Luhya community for supporting Ruto in the 2022 elections, citing unfulfilled promises.

During a TV interview on April 3, 2025, he expressed disappointment in the Kenya Kwanza administration’s failure to deliver development in Western Kenya, particularly in reviving key industries like Nzoia Sugar and Pan Paper Mills.

Looking Ahead to 2027

Malalah hinted at the possibility of endorsing new leadership in the 2027 elections if the current administration fails to deliver on its promises. He criticized some Luhya leaders for prioritizing personal gains over community interests.