Attorney General Dorcas Oduor has officially gazetted a five-member selection panel responsible for nominating members to the Waqf Commission. This development marks a significant step in operationalizing the Waqf Commission, which plays a crucial role in managing Islamic endowments in Kenya.
The appointment of the panel follows the provisions set out in Section 7 (1) of the Waqf Act, 2022, which grants the Attorney General the authority to facilitate the selection of commission members. The five individuals appointed to the selection panel are Jawahir Keinan Hassan, Al-Hajji Hassan Kirua ole Naado, Sheikh Ibrahim Lethome Asmani, Sheikh Abdala Ibrahim Ateka, and Sumayya Hassan. Their mandate is to identify and recommend suitable candidates for the Waqf Commission.
The Waqf Commission is tasked with registering, administering, and managing Waqf properties across the country. Waqf refers to the donation of assets, such as land or buildings, for religious or charitable purposes within the Muslim community, with no intention of reclaiming them. The commission ensures that these assets are effectively utilized and legally protected.
This move comes in response to longstanding concerns raised by Muslim leaders regarding delays in the full implementation of the Waqf Act, 2022. President William Ruto recently addressed these concerns during an Iftar dinner at State House, Nairobi, where he assured the Muslim community that the matter would be resolved under the leadership of Attorney General Oduor.
“I have a very competent lady in the position (Attorney General), and I can assure you that the issues of Waqf will be sorted out within months,” President Ruto stated.
The Waqf Commission, once fully constituted, will consist of a chairperson appointed by the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, alongside six other members recommended by the Muslim community. Additionally, representatives from the Attorney General’s office, the Ministry of Finance and Planning, and the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning will be part of the commission.
The establishment of the selection panel is a significant milestone in addressing the legal and administrative challenges that have hindered the proper management of Islamic endowments in Kenya. The Muslim community now awaits the appointment of the full commission to oversee and safeguard Waqf properties effectively.
