Cleophas Malala Officially Replaced By Hassan Omar As UDA Sec Gen

The Registrar of Political Parties, Ann Nderitu, has officially confirmed Hassan Omar’s appointment as the Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), succeeding Cleophas Malala, who had held the position on an acting basis since February 2023.

In a communication to the party, Nderitu acknowledged the recent changes and directed the UDA to conduct elections within the next six months to ensure all officeholders are substantively elected, as current officials are serving in an interim capacity.

Nderitu emphasized the importance of good governance practices, stating, “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.”

Additionally, the Political Parties registrar instructed the UDA to announce the new Secretary General in at least one daily newspaper and on the party’s official website, in accordance with Section 20 of the Political Parties Act, 2011.

The UDA’s National Executive Committee (NEC) made the decision on August 2, 2024, to revoke Malala’s appointment and designate Hassan Omar as the interim Secretary General.

The NEC’s decision was effective immediately and followed an incident where Malala’s supporters stormed the party offices.

This event occurred shortly after another faction of founding members declared Joe Khalende as the new secretary-general, further complicating the party’s internal dynamics.

The NEC meeting, which confirmed Omar’s appointment, was chaired by the party’s chairperson and Embu Governor, Cecily Mbarire.

The party emphasized that the changes were made after thorough deliberations and in accordance with its constitution.