Ruto Nominates Chairperson and Six Commissioners to National Land Commission
President William Ruto has nominated a new chairperson and six commissioners to serve at the National Land Commission (NLC), marking a major step in reconstituting the important land management body. The names of the nominees have already been forwarded to Parliament for vetting and approval, in line with the law.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, February 17, through a statement issued by the Head of Public Service. The nominations come shortly after a ruling by the Court of Appeal, which cleared the way for the recruitment and appointment process to continue.
Court Ruling Opened the Door for New Appointments
According to the Court of Appeal decision, the government was authorised to recruit and nominate a third group of commissioners. However, the ruling clearly stated that the appointments should only fill the vacant positions — that is, the role of chairperson and six commissioner slots.
This process is expected to continue as ongoing appeals by some previous applicants are still being handled by the courts.
Importantly, the judges also clarified that the terms of the two currently serving commissioners — Esther Murugi Mathenge and Tiyah Galgalo Ali — will not be affected by the new changes. Their terms are scheduled to end on December 20 this year, and they will continue serving until then as required by law.
Dr Abdillahi Saggaf Alawy Nominated as Chairperson
President Ruto has nominated Dr Abdillahi Saggaf Alawy to serve as the new chairperson of the commission. If approved by Parliament, he will take over from the outgoing chairperson, Gershom Otachi, whose term has come to an end.
Alongside Dr Alawy, six other individuals have been nominated to join the commission as members. They include financial expert Susan Khakasa Oyatsi; Daniel Murithi Muriungi; Kigen Vincent Cheruiyot, who previously served as Chairperson of the National Employment Authority;
Dr Julie Ouma Oseko, a respected advocate and senior legal consultant; former Banisa MP Mohamed Abdi Haji Mohamed; and former Kajiado Women Representative Mary Yiane Seneta.
Mary Yiane Seneta had earlier been shortlisted by the Public Service Commission (PSC) as one of nine candidates being considered for appointment to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) in 2025. However, she did not make it to the final list of nominees for that position.
Parliament to Vet the Nominees
Attention now shifts to the National Assembly, where Members of Parliament are expected to thoroughly vet the nominees.
The parliamentary vetting process will examine their professional background, integrity, qualifications, and suitability for office. If approved, their names will be formally submitted back to the President for official appointment to the commission.
In the official statement, the government explained that the nominations were made in full compliance with the court ruling and constitutional requirements.
“His Excellency the President has caused nominations for appointment to the ranks of the membership of the National Land Commission (NLC). In compliance with the decision of the Appellate Court, it is therefore notified that the Head of State and Government has nominated the Chairperson and six members of the National Land Commission, as annotated,” the statement read in part.
The statement further confirmed that the nominations had been transmitted to the National Assembly for consideration and approval, as required under the Constitution.
Role and Importance of the National Land Commission
The National Land Commission is one of Kenya’s key constitutional bodies. It is responsible for managing public land on behalf of both the national and county governments.
The commission also plays a critical role in investigating historical land injustices, recommending national land policies, and ensuring proper land use planning across the country.
Given the sensitivity of land matters in Kenya — which often touch on historical disputes, ownership conflicts, and development issues — the appointment of new commissioners is considered an important step in strengthening the institution and ensuring smooth operations.
Once Parliament completes the vetting process, the country will have a fully constituted commission expected to handle crucial land issues affecting millions of Kenyans.
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