Editor's Review

Omar has downplayed his claims that the party would mobilise even the dead to vote as political jargon.

UDA Party Secretary General Hassan Omar has downplayed his claims that the party would mobilise even the dead to vote as political jargon.

Appearing before the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee on Wednesday, October 21, Omar said that the statements were a rallying call to the UDA supporters to turn out to vote.

He added that it was impossible for the dead to cast votes in any election, and reminded IEBC that it was its constitutional mandate to conduct free, fair and credible elections.

"It is practically impossible for anybody to be registered as a dead voter and, for that matter, that carcass to be transported to vote, if not in person. Therefore, it was to emphasise the importance of turnout

"Secondly, political jargon is political jargon. Wakihesabu tunahesabu did not mean that we are counting separately. In fact, I was in that formation then. Mukitangaza, tutangaza, but we did not declare our own results then, and it was not a crime then to simply agitate for prudence and vigilance," he stated.

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A file photo of UDA SG Hassan Omar

The UDA SG further defended his remarks targeting a particular community during the rally. He argued that it is not wrong to seek redress for historical wrongs and to take advantage of a new policy that allows them, as citizens, to exercise their right to vote.

He also reassured the Commission that the UDA is committed to complying with the IEBC's requirements ahead of the August 10, 2027 election.

Omar said he would personally ensure that any member summoned by the electoral body honours the summons.

"I want to assure the IEBC that UDA and the broad-based government will comply with all the requirements of the commission. Should you need to summon any UDA party members who are unwilling to attend, I will personally bring them here," he stated.

IEBC had summoned Omar to appear before its Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee to allow him to respond to the allegations before the committee reached a decision.