The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) has opened a 14-day window for public submissions regarding the 35 candidates shortlisted for appointment to the Waqf Commission. The move aims to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity in the selection process.

The Selection Panel, chaired by Mohammed Alaw Hussun, released the candidate list following the receipt of 148 applications for the eight-member commission. SUPKEM encourages the Muslim community and the wider public to provide any relevant information or concerns that might assist in assessing the candidates' suitability, competence, and integrity.

Role and Composition of the Waqf Commission

Established under the Waqf Act, 2022, the commission will oversee the administration of waqf endowments across Kenya. These endowments, which include mosques, schools, cemeteries, land, and commercial properties, are dedicated under Islamic law for charitable, religious, or social purposes. The commission's responsibilities will include:

  • Registering waqf properties
  • Monitoring management and safeguarding assets
  • Overseeing trustees and ensuring compliance with donors' wishes
  • Developing policies on waqf administration
  • Resolving disputes related to waqf properties

The law mandates a diverse commission with expertise in Islamic jurisprudence, business, law, finance, accounting, architecture, administration, land economics, and social work. It also requires gender balance and inclusion of youth and persons with disabilities.

Selection Process and Next Steps

A five-member panel appointed by the Attorney-General, including Sheikh Hassan Ali Amin, Shoaib Vayani, Sumaya Hassan, and Hannan Hassan El-Kathiri alongside Chair Mohammed Alaw Hussun, is overseeing the recruitment. Following the public consultation, the panel will review all submissions before recommending successful candidates to the Attorney-General for official appointment.

The establishment of the Waqf Commission is expected to address longstanding challenges such as weak oversight, ownership disputes, and poor record-keeping of waqf assets. Religious leaders and Muslim organizations have long advocated for the commission’s activation to ensure proper management and preservation of charitable endowments for current and future generations.