A section of religious leaders is appealing to Attorney General Dorcas Oduor to review recent appointment of five members of the Waqf Commission selection panel to include representatives from the Coast.

Waqf is simply a form of permanent charitable donation where assets such as land or buildings are set aside to generate continuous benefits for the community, funding services like education, healthcare or religious activities.

Ms Oduor appointed Jawahir Keinan Hassan, Al-Hajji Hassan Kirua ole Naado, Sheikh Ibrahim Lethome Asmani, Sheikh Abdala Ibrahim Ateka and Sumayya Hassan to be members of the selection panel.

Sheikh Abu Qatada, the chairperson of Pwani Patriotic Religious Leaders, thanked President William Ruto for the appointment that will oversee the selection of members of the Waqf Commission, in accordance with Kenya Gazette Notice No.3861, published on March 28, 2025.

Sheikh Qatada acknowledged that the decision was long overdue and expressed his appreciation for the government’s commitment to streamlining the management of the endowment fund in the country. He lauded the government for taking steps toward establishing a fully functional Waqf Commission.

Given the prevalence of Waqf properties in the coastal region, he underlined the significance of having a proper regional balance in place to manage them effectively.

Sheikh Qatada raised concerns over the lack of representation from the coastal region in the selection panel. He pointed out that 99 per cent of Waqf properties are located at the coast – in particular, in Mombasa and Lamu counties.

He stressed that it was only fair for the region to have a voice in the commission, given its significance in Waqf management.

The sheikh further questioned the criteria used in selecting the current panel, urging the appointing authorities to ensure diversity in such important national appointments. He further reiterated that many qualified and educated individuals from the coast region were capable of serving in these roles and ensuring that the commission operates effectively.

The religious leaders from the Coastal region remained hopeful that the government would address their plea and ensure that their voices are represented in the crucial process of managing Waqf properties in the country.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Sitati Reagan