Chief Kadhi, Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein’s death was confirmed early Wednesday morning in Mombasa, cutting short his leadership of the country’s Islamic courts.
The news was announced by Sheikh Jamaludin Osman, Imam of Jamia Mosque in Nairobi.
“Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return,” Sheikh Osman said in a brief statement. “I am saddened to inform you of the passing of our Chief Kadhi, Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein, a while ago in Mombasa. He shall be buried there.”
The cause of death was not immediately made public.
Sheikh Abdulhalim was appointed as Chief Kadhi in July 2023, taking over from Sheikh Ahmed Muhdhar who had retired after serving for 12 years. His appointment followed a competitive process overseen by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), where he was selected from a shortlist of five candidates.
As Chief Kadhi, Sheikh Abdulhalim led Kenya’s Kadhis’ Courts Islamic courts that handle matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance for Muslims. His role, enshrined in the Constitution, also included translating Arabic legal documents and overseeing official family law records alongside magistrates.
The position requires not only a degree in Islamic law but also high moral standing and a commitment to the principles outlined in Chapter Six of Kenya’s Constitution, which demands integrity and accountability in public office.
At the time of his appointment, many within the Muslim community welcomed Sheikh Abdulhalim’s rise, praising his scholarship and calm leadership style. He became the 11th person to hold the post.
The Muslim community is expected to gather in Mombasa later today for his burial, in line with Islamic tradition.
Sheikh Abdulhalim’s death leaves a notable gap in a role central to the spiritual and legal lives of thousands of Kenyan Muslims.
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