Tony Gachoka condemns UDA’s Hassan Omar over remarks on Mt Kenya community
By Faith Lagat, May 24, 2026KANU spokesman Tony Gachoka has criticised United Democratic Alliance Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan over remarks perceived to target the Mount Kenya community, prompting an apology and renewed debate over ethnic politics ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a statement posted on X on May 24, 2026, Gachoka described Omar’s comments as offensive and called for condemnation from leaders across the political divide.
“The UDA hawk Hassan Omar’s derogatory comments against the Kikuyu community are gross, and as a proud Kenyan, I join the wholesale condemnation of this idiocy & dismiss it with the contempt it deserves,” he stated.
The controversy followed Omar’s comments linking protests, land matters, and political tensions involving the Mt Kenya region and former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Critics interpreted the remarks as ethnic profiling directed at the community, triggering criticism from leaders in Central Kenya and beyond.
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara accused President William Ruto and Omar of fuelling ethnic hostility ahead of the 2027 elections. Speaking on May 23, Kihara warned that such rhetoric risked undermining national unity and deepening political divisions within the ruling coalition.
Omar issues apology and clarification
Amid mounting criticism, Omar issued a formal clarification through the office of the UDA Secretary General. In the statement dated May 24, he said his remarks had been misunderstood and were not intended to offend any community.
“My comments were never intended to demean, offend, or target any community. Throughout my public life, I have remained firmly committed to upholding the dignity, rights, and unity of all Kenyans,” the statement read.
Omar explained that his comments were made within the context of advocating for historical land injustices affecting the Coast region.
“The remarks in question were made within the context of my long-standing advocacy on historical land injustices affecting the Coastal region, and were never intended to promote division, hostility, or animosity among communities,” he stated.
He also acknowledged the concerns raised by members of the Central Kenya region. “Nevertheless, I fully appreciate that some of our brothers and sisters, particularly from the Central Kenya region, may have felt aggrieved by the remarks. To all those who may have been offended, I sincerely regret the misunderstanding and extend my apology,” Omar added.
Mt Kenya leaders respond
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru also criticised the remarks, saying ethnic-based politics should be rejected regardless of political affiliation. “I have stood against ethnic-based politics when espoused by some leaders in Mt Kenya. In equal measure, I strongly stand against the Hassan Omar type of ethnic baiting that seeks to isolate the people of Mt Kenya,” she posted on X.
The exchange has intensified debate within political circles as alliances shift ahead of the next general election. Leaders from the Mt Kenya region have increasingly voiced concerns over divisive rhetoric and political realignments within the ruling coalition.