Oduor names panel to select Waqf Commission members

By Newsflash Correspondent

Kenya’s Attorney-General, Dorcas Oduor, has appointed a new five-member Selection Panel tasked with nominating suitable candidates for appointment to the Waqf Commission.

The announcement was made through Gazette Notice No. 3877, dated March 28, 2025, and effectively revokes the previous selection panel appointed under Gazette Notice No. 9143 of 2023.

The newly appointed panel members are:

Jawahir Keinan Hassan
Al-Hajji Hassan Kirua ole Naado
Sheikh Ibrahim Lethome Asmani
Sheikh Abdala Ibrahim Ateka
Sumayya Hassan

The panel, appointed under Section 7 (1) of the Waqf Act (Cap. 109), will be responsible for identifying and recommending qualified individuals to serve as members of the Waqf Commission. The Waqf Commission plays a crucial role in overseeing and managing waqf properties, ensuring their proper administration in accordance with Islamic principles.

Revocation of previous appointment

In the same gazette notice, the Attorney-General formally revoked Gazette Notice No. 9143 of 2023, which had previously established a different selection panel.

Read more: Ruto: Muturi was an incompetent AG

While no reasons were given for the revocation, the move signals a fresh approach in the appointment process of Waqf Commission members.

Role of the Waqf Commission

The Waqf Commission is a key institution in managing and safeguarding waqf properties, which include religious endowments and charitable trusts established for the benefit of Muslim communities. The commission ensures that these properties are utilized in accordance with the wishes of donors and in compliance with Islamic law.

With the formation of the new selection panel, expectations are high that the nomination and subsequent appointment of Waqf Commission members will be conducted transparently and effectively.

Next steps

The Selection Panel is expected to begin its mandate immediately, identifying suitable candidates for the Waqf Commission. The process will likely involve consultations with key stakeholders within the Muslim community to ensure that nominees meet the qualifications and expectations required for the management of waqf affairs.

The appointment of this new panel marks a significant step in the administration of waqf matters in the country, ensuring that the commission is composed of individuals who are well-versed in Islamic law and property management.

The appointment comes after President Ruto castigated former Attorney-General Justin Muturi for “unnecessarily” delaying the process.

Newsflash will continue to monitor developments regarding the selection and appointment process.