The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is encouraging qualified candidates to apply to the governor’s office for seats on the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission. 

The office is also encouraging Native Hawaiians and Native Hawaiian organizations to recommend nominees for the commission to Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Friday is the deadline.

The Native Hawaiian Roll Commission was established by law last month to prepare and maintain a roll of qualified Native Hawaiians who may choose to participate in the reorganization of a Native Hawaiian governing entity.

OHA Chief Executive Officer Clyde Namuo said in a statement Wednesday the roll is a critical first step in the nation-building process.