Leaders Demand Hassan Omar’s Resignation Over Mt Kenya Remarks
Politics Updated: 24 May 2026 22:00 EAT
UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar clarifies remarks on Mt Kenya after uproar
A section of political leaders has called for the resignation or removal of UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan following controversial remarks perceived to target the Mt Kenya community. The comments sparked a political storm, with critics accusing the senior party official of promoting ethnic division ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Among the leaders who strongly criticised Omar was Anne Waiguru, who accused him of engaging in ethnic baiting and divisive politics. Waiguru warned that such rhetoric could undermine national unity, saying Kenya had previously suffered from ethnic tensions and should avoid repeating past mistakes.
Other leaders from the Mt Kenya region, including Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara, Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami, and Kiambaa MP John Kawanjiku, also condemned the remarks and demanded an apology from the UDA official.
KANU spokesman Tony Gachoka joined the criticism, describing Omar’s statements as offensive and dangerous. He urged leaders across the political divide to reject what he termed as divisive ethnic rhetoric.
The controversy emerged after Omar made remarks during a political gathering at the Coast, where he appeared to criticise the Mt Kenya region over its opposition to President William Ruto. He also referenced former President Uhuru Kenyatta while discussing political tensions and economic protests.
Following mounting pressure, Omar issued a public statement apologising and clarifying that his comments had been misunderstood and taken out of context. He insisted that he never intended to demean, offend, or target any community.
Omar explained that his remarks were linked to his long-standing advocacy on historical land injustices affecting the Coastal region. He maintained that his intention was to discuss policy and historical grievances rather than fuel ethnic hostility.
The UDA Secretary General further acknowledged that some Kenyans, particularly from the Central Kenya region, may have been offended by his comments. He expressed regret over the misunderstanding and formally apologised to those affected.
Despite the apology, pressure continues to mount within political circles, with some leaders insisting that the remarks have already damaged trust within the Kenya Kwanza coalition. Analysts say the controversy highlights growing political tensions as parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.
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FELIX MAKONA
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