Ruto Moves to Strengthen Land Oversight with New NLC Appointments
News Updated: 17 February 2026 17:36 EAT
H. E President William Samoei Ruto
President William Ruto has nominated Dr. Abdillahi Saggaf Alawi as Chairperson of the National Land Commission (NLC), alongside six other commissioners, sending the list to Parliament for vetting and approval. The move comes as part of the government’s effort to fill key leadership positions in the constitutional body.
The six nominees for commissioner positions include Susan Khakasa Oyatsi, a financial expert from Kakamega County; Daniel Murithi Muriungi from Meru County; Kigen Vincent Cheruiyot from Kericho County; Dr. Julie Ouma Oseko from Siaya County; Mohamed Abdi Haji Mohamed from Mandera County; and Mary Yiane Seneta from Kajiado County.
The nominations follow a recent Court of Appeal ruling that upheld the process for recruiting and nominating members to the NLC, clarifying that the commission’s recruitment process should proceed without interference.
According to the ruling, the terms of two sitting commissioners, Esther Murugi Mathenge and Tiyah Galgalo Ali, whose tenure ends on December 20, 2026, remain unaffected by the new appointments, ensuring continuity in the commission’s operations.
Once forwarded to Parliament, the nominees are expected to undergo a vetting process to confirm their suitability for the positions, after which they will be formally appointed and assume office.
The National Land Commission is a constitutional body established under Article 67 of the Kenyan Constitution. Its mandate includes managing public land on behalf of national and county governments, advising on land policy, and investigating land injustices.
Dr. Abdillahi Alawi, the nominated chairperson, hails from Kwale County and brings experience in public service and legal affairs, which observers say will be vital for steering the commission in handling disputes over public land and policy implementation.
The nominees’ expertise spans multiple fields including law, finance, and administration, reflecting the government’s intent to strengthen the commission’s oversight and policy advisory roles.
The Head of Public Service formally transmitted the nominations to the National Assembly, adhering to constitutional provisions for state appointments, ensuring the process aligns with legal requirements.
The appointments are seen as a step toward addressing long-standing land management challenges in Kenya, where public land disputes and allegations of mismanagement have been persistent issues.
Parliament is expected to conduct committee vetting sessions before scheduling a plenary vote, after which the confirmed chairperson and commissioners will begin their duties, shaping land policy and management at a national level.
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FELIX MAKONA
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