Senator Hassan Omar faces an IEBC warning over his Mombasa rally remarks.
The electoral commission found Senator Hassan Omar breached the conduct code and cautioned that further violations would attract harsher penalties.
The IEBC warns Omar of tougher sanctions after finding that his remarks at a Mombasa rally breached the Electoral Code of Conduct. The commission issued Senator Hassan Omar a formal warning and strict caution over the September 11, 2026 remarks.
Its Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee concluded Complaint No. 3 of 2026 after examining evidence and submissions from both sides. It found that Omar violated paragraphs 6(k)(i) and 6(l) of the code.
The senator appeared in person with his lawyer on October 21 after the committee summoned him over allegations of inflammatory remarks. During the proceedings, he responded to the allegations and presented his defence.
Committee rejects figurative explanation
Omar explained that he intended his words figuratively to encourage voter registration and participation. The committee considered that explanation, his subsequent clarification and the context of the rally remarks.
It also took into account the absence of evidence linking the statements to an actual electoral incident. However, the committee found that the original Kiswahili wording carried a meaning inconsistent with electoral integrity.
In its assessment, the remarks invoked using a deceased person’s biometric identifier to vote in that person’s name. The committee therefore found the language inconsistent with paragraph 6(l), which requires political actors to reassure voters about ballot integrity.
Following that finding, the committee issued its warning under paragraph 7(a)(i) of the code. It also directed Omar to comply with the code throughout the remaining applicable election period.
IEBC warns Omar against repeat breaches
The commission directed the senator to avoid language or conduct that could reasonably encourage or normalise electoral malpractice. Its directive also covers statements or behaviour that could undermine confidence in the integrity of the ballot.
Furthermore, the IEBC cautioned that any subsequent breach would attract a more severe sanction under the code and applicable law. It described the ruling as a formal enforcement action intended to draw a firm boundary against similar conduct.
Meanwhile, the commission urged leaders, candidates, parties and supporters to exercise restraint ahead of the August 2027 General Election. It warned that language encouraging electoral malpractice could weaken public confidence in the voting process.
However, the IEBC stressed that enforcement does not aim to restrict legitimate political competition or freedom of expression. Political actors retain their constitutional rights to campaign, criticise and debate, but must exercise those freedoms responsibly.
