United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Hassan Omar has strongly criticized Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen for officially gazetting the Muslim Brotherhood as a terror group, describing the move as hasty and potentially divisive.
Speaking on Monday, Omar questioned the basis of the government’s decision, urging authorities to provide clear evidence and a transparent process before labelling religious organisations as terrorist entities.
Omar argued that the gazettement could deepen social tensions and marginalise communities, warning that such actions should be backed by robust legal procedures and credible intelligence.
“We must be careful not to stigmatise communities without solid evidence. Leadership requires caution, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law,” he said, emphasising the importance of balancing national security with citizens’ rights to freedom of religion and association.
The criticism comes amid rising debates over national security policies, religious freedoms, and counterterrorism measures in Kenya.
Omar also called for dialogue between government authorities, religious leaders, and civil society organisations to foster understanding and prevent tensions from escalating.
He urged that any counterterrorism actions should be conducted with transparency and accountability to ensure public trust in the government’s measures.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between security concerns and civil liberties, and the need for careful policy implementation to maintain social cohesion while addressing potential threats.
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