President Ruto calls CS Muturi 'fairly incompetent' in handling Waqf issues

President Ruto has publicly criticized Cabinet Secretary for Public Service Justin Muturi, labeling him "fairly incompetent" in handling legal matters concerning the establishment of Waqf, a commission responsible for managing Islamic endowments.

Speaking at an Iftar dinner at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, Ruto assured the Muslim community that the issues surrounding Waqf would soon be resolved under the current Attorney General.

“I had a problem with the AG who was there before, he was fairly incompetent. But now, I have a very competent lady in the position, and I can assure you that the issues of Waqf will be sorted out within months,” Ruto stated.

His remarks came in response to concerns raised by Muslim leaders over delays in operationalizing the endowment fund, despite an existing Act.

Ruto's strong criticism of Muturi's tenure as Attorney General highlights an escalating rift between the two, especially in light of Muturi’s recent accusations that the Ruto administration is complicit in abductions and extrajudicial killings.

Beyond addressing Waqf matters, the President reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusivity, affirming that all communities have a place in government.

“The Government of Kenya is able to carry all of us, from different backgrounds, communities, and religions. Nobody needs to leave for someone else to come in. If anyone ever doubted that, now we have a broad-based government. Everybody is here, and bado haijajaa,” he said.

He also assured the Nubian community of their rightful recognition as a Kenyan community, promising official acknowledgment by either Madaraka Day or Jamhuri Day.

Additionally, Ruto addressed concerns over the integration of religious education into the national curriculum.

He acknowledged that delays in mainstreaming religious education had persisted for too long and promised action.

“We will continue to look at the issues raised here—how we can mainstream religious education and find a nexus between religious and formal education. This has taken too long, and there is absolutely no reason for it,” he added.