The Registrar of Political Parties, Ann Nderitu has confirmed the appointment of Hassan Omar as the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) secretary general.

This was after the party confirmed the removal of Cleophas Malala who was appointed to the position, in acting capacity in February 2023.

In a letter dated August 5, 2024, Nderitu noted that she had received communication from UDA on the party leadership changes.

At the same time, she directed the party to hold elections within the next 180 days to have substantive officeholders.

“The office also notes that most of the current UDA officials are holding positions on interim basis.

“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,” Nderitu stated.

The Political Parties registrar further directed the President William Ruto’s party to publish the appointment of Hassan Omar as secretary general in at least one daily newspaper and its official website 

“Pursuant to Section 20 of the Political Parties Act, 2011 the party is guided to publish the change of the official in at least one daily newspaper having nationwide circulation and in the official party website and notify the office for further processing,” she directed.

UDA’s National Executive Committee (NEC) on August 2, 2024 revoked Cleophas Malala’s appointment as interim Secretary General.

“Upon wide and consultative deliberations, and in compliance and in accordance with its mandate under Article 8.2 of the Party Constitution, the National Executive Committee has determined to designate the Vice-Chairperson, Hon. Hassan Omar Hassan to act as the Secretary General on an interim basis.

“The appointment of Cleophas Malala as the interim Secretary General is hereby revoked,” the party said.

The NEC meeting was chaired by the party’s chairperson and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire.