The interim Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) deputy party leader, Cleophas Malala, has declared his bid for the Kakamega gubernatorial race in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the Western region tour by the opposition leaders on Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Kakamega Town, Malala vowed to revive the devolved unit if elected governor.
“I want you people to give me an opportunity. In 2027, I will send Baraza home. We must revive Kakamega County. I am prepared; I am ready,” he declared.
The former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General has stated that Governor Fernandes Barasa has not done any development for the people of Kakamega.
He also claimed that the governor sent people to prevent the opposition leaders from entering Kakamega Town for their tour.
“We will not allow anyone who will prevent the opposition from entering Kakamega. Governor Baraza has sent people to Muraka to prevent us from accessing Kakamega Town. He has not done any development for this county,” he stated.
Furthermore, he has pledged to offer employment in the Kakamega County government if elected to the position.
“When elected, I will ensure the young people in this devolved unit will get employment in the county government,” he said.
Additionally, he has called on the people of Kakamega to support his party by electing Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), Members of Parliament, and a senator under DCP.
2022 race
Malala vied for the seat on an ANC ticket in the August 2022 elections, where he lost to Barasa, who garnered 192,929 votes against his 159,508 votes.
Speaking after he conceded defeat on August 30, 2025, Malala described Barasa’s victory as deserved and undisputed and lauded the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for conducting free, fair, credible, and verifiable elections.
“I congratulate the governor-elect, FCPA Fernandes Barasa, and his team for their win. It is deserved and undisputable. I am ready to offer any part of my manifesto that they may find suitable in their new government for the progress of Kakamega,” Malala stated.
