The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has reflected on the recently concluded by-elections, with Secretary-General Hassan Omar expressing gratitude to voters and reaffirming the party’s commitment to Kenya’s development agenda.
Speaking at a press briefing at the UDA headquarters in Nairobi, Omar noted that UDA contested in 21 constituencies across the country, securing victory in 12, while allied parties won six others.
“We have secured an almost supermajority in all these contests across the country. This shows that Kenyans appreciate both the development programmes of the President and the unity exhibited by the various institutions,” Omar added.
He urged citizens, particularly those in urban centers and active on social media, to recognise the impact of government programmes in marginalised and previously underserved areas.
“In areas excluded from previous development frameworks, contests were not between us and the United Opposition but between us and the aspirations of the people,” he said, citing initiatives such as universal health care, access to water, and infrastructure projects, including the North Summit project launched earlier this week.
Omar described the by-elections as a test of public confidence in the government’s performance.
“In many democracies, electorates punish governments that are unpopular. Yet, this process gave us strength, an expression of confidence from the Kenyan people,” he said, emphasising achievements such as debt re-profiling, expansion of foreign reserves, and subsidies to farmers.
He highlighted UDA’s transformative agenda, describing it as a “Bottom-Up Economic Transformation,” aimed at economic, social, and political restructuring.
“We are implementing a manifesto that addresses housing, healthcare, SMEs, agriculture, and more. The public sees the difference and is happier beyond the noise on social media,” he said.
In a strong message to opposition figures, Omar condemned calls for violence and intimidation.
“Your constant incitement for violence must stop. This government will protect the lives and property of all Kenyans and will not allow the replay of past theatrics,” he warned, referring to former political provocations.
Omar also emphasised the importance of women’s leadership, noting that UDA successfully elected two women on its own initiative.
“We continue to mainstream and enhance women’s leadership in all aspects of governance,” he said.
Addressing internal party discipline, Omar urged members supporting opposition candidates to step down and face elections fairly.
“If you are supporting an opponent of the party, resign and face us in an election. That is the honourable course,” he said.
On narrow by-election margins, Omar defended the results, noting historical trends and local dynamics.
“Even in constituencies with tight margins, the data reflects longstanding voting patterns. Victory or defeat should be analysed based on historical and demographic contexts,” he said.
He commended church leaders and other civic actors for promoting peace during the elections and urged media practitioners to engage responsibly in public discourse.
He acknowledged the role of science and strategy in campaign planning while cautioning against misinformation and social media theatrics.
Omar encouraged Kenyans to support the government’s ongoing transformative agenda, reiterating the party’s commitment to national unity and institutional integrity.
“All institutions must carry out their mandate independently and without intimidation. The public has overwhelmingly rejected the calls for violence and disruption,” he said.
By Naif Rashid
