Hassan Omar Hassan has been appointed as the Acting Secretary General of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), replacing Cleophas Malala. The former Kakamega Senator was dismissed from his position following a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held on Friday.
The NEC, which is responsible for the party’s governance and policy direction, made the decision to remove Malala after extensive consultations and deliberations. In a statement, the NEC emphasized that the changes are effective immediately, marking a significant shift in the party’s leadership.
The committee stated, “The appointment of Hon Cleophas Malala as the interim Secretary General is hereby revoked. These changes are effective immediately.”
Cleophas Malala speaking to the media during a past event
The decision to appoint Hassan Omar as the Acting Secretary General is seen as a move to stabilize the party’s internal dynamics and to set a more inclusive and participative tone in its organizational structure. Omar, who has been serving as the party’s Vice Chairperson, is expected to bring a fresh approach to the role as UDA prepares for upcoming elections.
The NEC also directed the National Elections Board to proceed with the grassroots elections as previously scheduled. These elections are viewed as a crucial step in allowing UDA members to select their preferred leaders from the polling center to the national level, thus strengthening the party’s grassroots support.
Malala’s ouster comes in the wake of rising tensions and divisions within UDA, which prompted an emergency meeting by a section of party leaders earlier in the week.
Former Senator Hon. Hassan Omar during a past media presser
The party’s leadership has been under scrutiny, with some members calling for a realignment of strategies to better align with the broader national political landscape.
In its statement, the NEC highlighted the importance of continually adapting the party’s policies and political guidance to reflect the aspirations of its members and the changing political environment. The party’s commitment to inclusivity and consultation was underscored as key to its future success.
As UDA moves forward under Hassan Omar’s leadership, the party will be closely watched to see how it navigates the internal challenges and positions itself for the future.
