In a statement dated May 24, 2026, Omar said his comments were made within the context of his long-standing advocacy on historical land injustices affecting the Coast region, and were not meant to promote “division, hostility, or animosity” among communities.
“My comments were never intended to demean, offend, or target any community,” he said.
Omar said he appreciates that some Kenyans, particularly from Central Kenya, may have felt aggrieved by the remarks.
“To all those who may have been offended, I sincerely regret the misunderstanding and extend my apology,” he said.
The clarification comes after Omar faced backlash over comments made during the recent nationwide fuel strike protests, during which he accused sections of the transport sector of bias and warned that action would be taken against leaders he said were inciting unrest.
In earlier remarks, Omar said former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua would face arrest if found culpable of incitement linked to the protests.
“This is no joke… If Riggy G breaks the law and the arms of the law point at him, we will arrest him,” Omar said.
Omar also defended the government’s approach to addressing what he described as cartels in the transport sector, saying the administration is pursuing projects such as commuter rail and bus rapid transit (BRT) systems to reduce reliance on cartels and improve public transport.
He further questioned why matatu operators withdrew services under the current administration yet did not stage similar action during fuel price challenges under former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s regime.
Omar urged Kenyans to use constitutional processes to express discontent, telling those opposed to President William Ruto’s administration to wait until the 2027 General Election.
