By James Mutua
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General, Senator Hassan Omar Hassan, today issued nomination certificates to the party’s candidates ahead of the by-elections scheduled for 14 May 2026 at the party’s headquarters in Nairobi.
The candidates include David Kipsang Keter for the Emurua Dikirr parliamentary seat, Daniel Lolngojine for Poro Ward in Samburu County, and Festus Korir Kirop for Endo Ward in Elgeyo-Marakwet County.
While presenting the certificates, Hassan reaffirmed the party’s support for the candidates, expressing confidence in their leadership and ability to secure victory. He also underscored UDA’s determination to replicate its strong performance in the recently concluded by-elections.
National Elections Board Chairperson Anthony Mwaura reiterated the party’s commitment to conducting free, fair, credible and verifiable internal elections, supported by technology.
During the event, the Secretary General took a swipe at opposition leaders, sections of the media and former president Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing them of undermining the current administration and promoting division. Omar defended the government’s record, describing it as inclusive, reform-driven and focused on long-term economic transformation.
He accused former President Uhuru Kenyatta of attempting to interfere with government operations despite failing to address key national challenges during his tenure. According to Omar, the previous administration weakened critical sectors such as agriculture and banking through policies that encouraged monopolies and privatization.
“The same people who failed to deliver for marginalized communities are now trying to lecture the country on governance,” he said.
Omar also highlighted plans to establish a national infrastructure fund aimed at financing development through locally generated resources. He said the initiative would reduce reliance on external borrowing while accelerating projects under public-private partnerships.
He further accused opposition figures of fueling ethnic tensions and spreading misinformation, warning that such actions threaten national unity.
“They are trying to polarize the country and spread hatred among communities. Kenyans must reject this politics of division.” ~ UDA SG Sen. Hassan Omar Hassan
The UDA Secretary General described the current administration as the most inclusive since independence, citing the appointment of individuals from minority and previously marginalized communities to key positions in government and state corporations.
“For the first time, even the most forgotten groups feel part of government. This is a truly inclusive administration,” he added.
Omar also criticised sections of the media, singling out Standard Media Group, which he accused of bias, unprofessionalism and promoting divisive narratives. He alleged that the media house had consistently published misleading information and failed to uphold journalistic standards.
“Accountability is important, but it must be based on truth. The media cannot become a tool for propaganda and division,” he said.
Despite the criticism, Omar emphasised the importance of accountability, urging media and oversight institutions to expose corruption and poor service delivery where it exists. He called on Kenyans to assess the government based on its performance and development agenda rather than political rhetoric.
He concluded by rallying support for the party’s candidates, expressing confidence in their chances and reiterating the party’s commitment to what he described as fearless leadership.
“We speak boldly because we are focused on delivering for Kenyans,” he said.
The event was attended by Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, UDA Executive Director Nicodemus Bore, Deputy Executive Director Higgins Mbugua, Director of Women Affairs Margaret Ndanyi, Director of Membership Grace Gicovi, Director of Communication Nathaniel Mong’are, as well as members of the National Elections Board and other party officials.
