A Sunday night interview on Citizen TV took an unexpected turn after veteran journalist Jeff Koinange and Democratic Change Party (DCP) deputy leader Cleophas Malala exchanged sharp remarks during a discussion about political leadership and generational change.
The two clashed during the November 1 edition of Sunday Live, where Malala discussed his support for Edwin Sifuna’s Kakamega gubernatorial bid ahead of the next General Election.
How Jeff Koinange and Cleophas Malala clashed on Citizen TV
The discussion initially focused on generational change in Kenyan politics and Malala’s support for Sifuna’s gubernatorial ambitions.
However, the conversation became increasingly tense when Malala was asked about his history of moving between political parties.
Defending his political decisions, Malala presented the changes as part of his personal growth rather than political opportunism.
He then turned his criticism towards Koinange, accusing the veteran journalist of resisting generational change.
Malala also compared him to Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli, referring to the journalist as the “Atwoli of the media.”
Jeff Koinange calls Malala a serial party hopper
Koinange responded with equally sharp remarks, describing Malala as a serial party hopper and referring to him as “Little Ruto”.
The journalist also questioned Malala’s standing within the DCP, suggesting that Senator Methu had overtaken him in influence within the party.
The exchange added a personal dimension to an interview that had started as a discussion about political succession, party loyalty and leadership.
What Jeff Koinange posted after the Malala interview
On Monday, November 2, Koinange shared photographs from the interview on his social media accounts.
His caption focused on the topics discussed during the programme, including Malala’s position in the DCP, his backing of Edwin Sifuna and the Kakamega gubernatorial race.
Koinange wrote:
“About Last Night on #SundayLive Citizen TV Kenya with DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala, on his place in the party, backing Edwin Sifuna and his run for Kakamega Governor, nine months to the General Election. If you missed it, catch up on YouTube and spread the word.”
He did not directly address the confrontation or mention the remarks exchanged during the live broadcast.
The post came a day after the interview attracted attention online, with viewers discussing the tense exchange between the journalist and the DCP deputy leader.
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