DUNCAN OJWANG DECLINES RUTO’S NOMINATION AS KNCHR CHAIRPERSON

Dr. Duncan Oburu Ojwang has formally declined President William Ruto’s nomination to serve as Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), barely a week after his appointment.
In a letter addressed to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and tabled in the House on Wednesday, August 13, Dr. Ojwang cited personal reasons and a perceived conflict of interest for turning down the position.
“Due to personal considerations and the likelihood of conflict of interest in the execution of the duties of the office, I hereby decline the appointment,” read part of Dr. Ojwang’s letter.
Speaker Wetang’ula directed the Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs to cease the vetting process, which was set to begin this week. He also instructed the Clerk of the National Assembly to notify the appointing authority to nominate a new candidate.
Dr. Ojwang’s nomination, announced on August 5 following the death of former chairperson Roseline Odhiambo Odede, had faced legal challenges. The Katiba Institute and the Kenya Human Rights Commission had moved to court, arguing that his appointment violated Article 250(11) of the Constitution, which requires that the chairperson and vice-chairperson of an independent commission be of opposite genders. KNCHR’s current vice-chair, Dr. Raymond Nyeris, is male.
The High Court is scheduled to mention the case on September 17, even though the nomination has now been withdrawn.
President Ruto is expected to forward a fresh name to Parliament for consideration.