The National Land Commission (NLC) has officially handed over its exit report to President William Ruto, marking the end of the term for its outgoing commissioners who have served since 2019.
The commission, established under the 2010 Constitution, has been instrumental in safeguarding public land, resolving long-standing land disputes, and shaping fair land policies.
Over the years, its work has enabled tens of thousands of Kenyans to gain legal ownership of land through title deeds and settlement schemes.
Outgoing commissioners who presented the report included Chairperson Gershom Otachi, Vice-Chairperson Gertrude Nduku Nguku, James Tuitoek, Kazungu Kambi, Hubbie Hussein Al-Haji, Alister Murimi Mutugi, and Reginald Okumu.
Receiving the report, Ruto commended the team for their dedication and contributions to the land reforms agenda.
"I wish them success in their future endeavours," he said.
He also thanked the team for its exemplary service to the nation.
Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome was present during the ceremony and lauded the commission for its role in promoting transparency and accountability in land management.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continue building on the gains achieved by the outgoing team to ensure equitable access and sustainable use of land resources.
The new team is expected to continue strengthening the NLC’s mandate in addressing historical land injustices and managing public land for the benefit of all Kenyans.
The commissioners are appointed through a constitutional process set out in the 2010 Constitution (Article 67 and the National Land Commission Act).
Outgoing land commissioners hand over exit report to president
President Ruto kicked off the process of constituting a new commission by appointing a seven-member selection panel.
In a gazette notice dated August 15, 2025, Ruto declared vacancies in the commission, noting that the current officeholders’ six-year non-renewable term will lapse on November 14.
He said the early move is meant to guarantee a smooth transition in line with the Constitution and the National Land Commission Act.
"I declare impending vacancies in the positions of chairperson and member of the commission, with effect from November 14, 2025 and constitute a selection panel for the recruitment of nominees for appointment as chairperson and members of the national land commission," he said.
Ruto named seven members to the selection panel, among them Jasper Micheni Mbiuki, Peris Mang’ira, Electine Nasambu, Ann Mwangangi, Bibiana Rabuku Omalla, Professor Nichola Letting, and Rehema Dida Jaldesa.
The court has, however, issued an order blocking the ongoing process.
This is after some current office holders filed a case at the High Court challenging the Gazette Notice that was issued by the Head of State.
Additionally, they challenged subsequent advertisements that declared vacancies in the positions of NLC chairperson and commissioners.
