NAIROBI, Kenya – The Registrar of Political Parties, Ann Nderitu, has confirmed Hassan Omar’s appointment as the new Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
This announcement comes after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) revoked Cleophas Malala’s interim appointment to the role, which he had held since February 2023.
In a letter, Nderitu acknowledged the communication from UDA regarding the leadership change and directed the party to hold elections within six months to formalize the appointments.
Currently, all UDA officeholders, including the Secretary-General, are serving in an acting capacity.
“The office also notes that most of the current UDA officials are holding positions on an interim basis,” Nderitu stated. “In line with good governance practices and the mandate of this office, the party is hereby directed to finalize the party elections as soon as practically possible but not later than a hundred and eighty (180) days from the date of this letter.”
The Registrar also mandated UDA to publicly announce the change of Secretary General in a widely circulated daily newspaper and on its official website.
“Pursuant to Section 20 of the Political Parties Act, 2011, the party is guided to publish the change of the official in at least one daily newspaper having nationwide circulation and in the official party website and notify the office for further processing,” Nderitu added.
The NEC’s decision to appoint Hassan Omar was reportedly made after extensive consultations.
The NEC meeting, chaired by Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, followed a chaotic day where supporters of Cleophas Malala stormed UDA’s party offices.
This incident occurred just a day after another faction within the party declared Joe Khalende as the new Secretary General, further deepening the internal strife.
In response to the turmoil, Mbarire stated that the NEC would address the issue comprehensively and decide on the necessary actions.
“The NEC meeting will discuss the matter in detail and determine the appropriate course of action,” she said.
