In a statement, the commission said the summons was issued through its Electoral Code of Conduct Enforcement Committee. Omar is expected to explain comments he allegedly made during a political rally in Jomvu, Mombasa County, on September 11.
Remarks Trigger Political Dispute
The controversy emerged during an event where Omar declared his intention to contest the Mombasa gubernatorial seat in the August 2027 General Election. His alleged comments about deceased voters drew criticism from opposition leaders, who raised concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Leaders affiliated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in Mombasa subsequently called for disciplinary action against the UDA official. The remarks also prompted debate over safeguards against electoral malpractice and the accuracy of voter registration records.
Omar later addressed the controversy on September 14, saying his comments had been metaphorical. He maintained that he was highlighting concerns about the integrity of the voter register rather than describing an actual plan to use deceased people's fingerprints to cast ballots.
IEBC Says Omar Must Answer the Allegations
The commission said it was examining the remarks because they could amount to a breach of the Electoral Code of Conduct. Its mandate includes safeguarding the integrity of elections and ensuring political participants comply with relevant constitutional and legal requirements.
IEBC has, however, not announced a final finding against Omar. The committee is expected to consider his explanation alongside the available material before deciding whether any action is warranted.
The commission emphasised that the UDA official must be given an opportunity to respond before a determination is made. It also urged him to honour the summons and cooperate with the proceedings.
Calls for Party Disciplinary Action
The dispute has also generated pressure within UDA, with some party members reportedly calling for disciplinary measures against Omar. Among the proposals raised has been his removal from the position of secretary general.
The outcome of the IEBC proceedings could determine whether the matter proceeds to further action under the electoral conduct framework. Until the committee reaches a decision, the allegations remain unresolved, and Omar's response will form part of the process.
The case comes as political parties and electoral institutions prepare for the 2027 General Election, with questions about voter registration and electoral integrity likely to remain under public scrutiny.
