Malala accused Oburu of making comments that undermine Kenya's democratic gains and called on the veteran politician to issue an unreserved apology to Kenyans.
Taking to social media, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) deputy party leader described the suggestion that Kenya has too much democracy as deeply disappointing.
Malala argued that such sentiments were an affront to the many Kenyans who suffered under authoritarian rule, including Oburu's late brother, Raila Odinga, whom he said endured detention and persecution while fighting for democratic freedoms.
According to the former Kakamega senator, the remarks by the ODM leader were particularly unfortunate because they came only days after the second anniversary of the Gen Z protests and at a time when concerns over shrinking civic space continue to be raised.
He labelled the comments as insensitive and reckless.
The former senator also claimed the remarks suggested that the ODM leadership is increasingly becoming detached from the democratic ideals on which the party was founded. He insisted that Oburu owed Kenyans an unreserved apology for his statement.
Malala's comments followed remarks made by Oburu on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, after witnessing the progression of the Sovereign Wealth Fund Bill at State House.
Addressing the gathering, Oburu said he had encouraged President Ruto to occasionally employ a level of "benevolent dictatorship" to remain firm, cut through political noise and make difficult but bold decisions that he believed would deliver the best outcomes for Kenyans.
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