Duncan Ojwang declines Ruto’s nomination as KNCHR chairperson
By Kiprono Keileb, August 13, 2025The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, has confirmed receiving a letter from Duncan Oburu Ojwang declining his nomination as Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
Duncan Ojwang, whose name had been submitted to the National Assembly by President William Ruto for approval hearings, was set to appear before the Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs for vetting.
In a communication to the House on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Speaker Wetang’ula informed members that the President’s proposal to appoint Ojwang had been officially forwarded to the relevant committee, accompanied by his detailed curriculum vitae.
“The Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula has received a letter from Dr. Duncan Oburu Ojwang, declining his nomination as Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR),” a statement on Parliament’s Facebook page read.
He explained that, in keeping with parliamentary procedure, the next step would have been for the Committee to undertake a thorough vetting process, scrutinising Ojwang’s qualifications, professional background, and suitability for the role before making a recommendation to the House for approval or rejection.
A lawyer by profession, Ojwang is widely recognised for his extensive experience in national and international human rights law, policy, and constitutional matters. His nomination was anticipated to bring a wealth of expertise to the commission, an institution tasked with the critical mandate of promoting and safeguarding human rights across the country.
Following the withdrawal, the Clerk of the National Assembly will now notify the appointing authority to pave the way for the President to propose a new nominee. This development means that the process of filling the KNCHR chairperson position will be delayed until a new candidate is identified and vetted.
KNHRC
The KNCHR is mandated to monitor, investigate, and report on human rights issues in Kenya, making the chairperson’s role a crucial position in ensuring accountability and adherence to constitutional rights. Ojwang’s decision to step aside leaves an important vacancy at a time when the commission is expected to address key human rights concerns in the country.
The House is now awaiting the President’s next move to nominate a replacement, who will then undergo the standard vetting process before formal appointment.