Kenya’s Judiciary has turned to a familiar face to lead its Kadhis’ courts after the sudden loss of its head.
Sukyan Omar Hassan, a Senior Principal Kadhi who served as deputy to the late Sheikh Athman Abdul-Halim, has been appointed Acting Chief Kadhi. His appointment took effect on 6 August and will run for three months, or until a new Chief Kadhi is chosen.
“Mr Omar will discharge all the duties and responsibilities of the Chief Kadhi during the acting period,” Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya said in a statement.
The decision was made at a Judicial Service Commission (JSC) meeting on 14 July, just days after Sheikh Abdul-Halim’s passing in Mombasa on 10 July. His death brought an early and unexpected end to a tenure that began in July 2023.
Sheikh Abdul-Halim had stepped into the role after a competitive process, succeeding Sheikh Ahmed Muhdhar, who retired after 12 years. As Chief Kadhi, he oversaw sensitive family matters in the Muslim community from marriage and divorce to inheritance while also translating Arabic legal documents and managing Kadhi court registries across the country.
The position is more than ceremonial. It is a constitutional office, reserved for Muslims with deep knowledge of Islamic law, a proven record of good conduct, and membership in recognised Islamic associations. Candidates must also meet the integrity standards set out in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
For now, Omar is tasked with steering the Kadhis’ courts through a time of change, while the search for a permanent successor quietly continues.
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