UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar has issued a public clarification and apology after remarks linked to historical land injustices at the Coast sparked backlash from sections of leaders and residents in the Mt Kenya region.
Omar said his comments had been “misinterpreted and taken out of context,” insisting they were never meant to demean or target any community.
“My comments were never intended to demean, offend, or target any community,” Omar stated.
The UDA Secretary General explained that the remarks were made within the context of his long standing advocacy on historical land injustices affecting the Coastal region and were not intended to fuel division or hostility among Kenyans.
“Throughout my public life, I have remained firmly committed to upholding the dignity, rights, and unity of all Kenyans,” he added.
Omar also acknowledged that some people, particularly from Central Kenya, may have been offended by the remarks and extended an apology.
“To all those who may have been offended, I sincerely regret the misunderstanding and extend my apology,” he said.
The clarification came after political pressure mounted against the UDA official, with several leaders accusing him of making divisive remarks and dragging former President Uhuru Kenyatta into unnecessary political exchanges.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru was among leaders who publicly criticized Omar, accusing him of engaging in ethnic baiting and divisive politics.
The controversy has once again highlighted the sensitivity surrounding regional and ethnic remarks in Kenya’s political landscape, especially as political realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election continue taking shape.
It also comes at a time when UDA has been intensifying grassroots mobilization at the Coast region, with Omar playing a central role in the ruling party’s efforts to strengthen support in Mombasa and other coastal counties.
Before joining UDA leadership, Omar built his profile as a lawyer, former Mombasa Senator and human rights advocate, particularly on issues touching on governance and historical injustices.
