Angry Uhuru Kenyatta Fires Back at Hassan Omar Over Controversial Remarks
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has strongly reacted to controversial remarks made by UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar, escalating political tensions amid the ongoing fuel crisis and rising public frustration over the cost of living in Kenya.
Speaking during a Jubilee Party delegates meeting in Kiambu, Uhuru sharply criticized leaders engaging in divisive politics and blame games instead of focusing on the economic struggles facing ordinary Kenyans. Without directly naming Hassan Omar in every part of his speech, the former President appeared to respond to recent inflammatory comments that linked him and leaders from the Mt Kenya region to growing opposition pressure against President William Ruto’s government.
Uhuru insisted that Kenyans are more concerned about the high cost of living, fuel prices, and economic hardship than political rhetoric and tribal narratives. He warned leaders against reviving ethnic politics, saying such remarks risk dividing the country at a time when citizens are already struggling financially.
“Address the fuel issue, do not talk about tribalism. Kenyans will not eat words,” Uhuru said as he condemned attempts to shift focus away from the country’s economic challenges.
The remarks came days after Hassan Omar sparked outrage following comments made during public engagements linked to the recent fuel crisis and matatu strike protests. Omar had accused sections of the Mt Kenya political leadership, including Uhuru Kenyatta, of fueling opposition against the government instead of helping calm tensions. The comments generated sharp backlash from opposition figures and leaders from the Mt Kenya region, who accused the UDA Secretary General of promoting divisive politics.
Facing mounting criticism, Hassan Omar later issued a public apology, claiming his remarks had been misunderstood and taken out of context. He stated that he never intended to offend any community and expressed regret to those who felt targeted by his statements.
However, Uhuru’s response suggested that the controversy had already touched a sensitive political nerve. The former President warned that Kenya must avoid repeating mistakes associated with ethnic incitement and reminded leaders of the dangers of tribal politics, referencing tensions that previously contributed to national unrest.
Uhuru also criticized government leaders for continuing to drag his name into discussions surrounding the current economic crisis, insisting that those currently in power should focus on governing instead of blaming previous administrations. He argued that leadership requires finding solutions rather than engaging in political distractions.
Political analysts say the exchange highlights growing political tensions between allies of President William Ruto and figures associated with the former President ahead of the 2027 political contest. The fuel crisis, rising cost of living, and mounting economic frustration have increasingly become politically charged issues, with both government and opposition figures attempting to shape public opinion.
The controversy has also reignited debate over the role of ethnic rhetoric in Kenyan politics. Several leaders and civil society groups have warned against statements capable of inflaming regional divisions, especially during periods of economic hardship and political tension.
As political temperatures continue rising, Uhuru’s remarks are likely to intensify national debate around governance, economic accountability, and the future direction of Kenya’s politics. The growing war of words between government allies and former administration figures now signals what could become an increasingly heated political environment as the country edges closer to the next election cycle.
