Mulembe Times – July 10, 2025
Kenya is mourning the death of its Chief Kadhi, Sheikh Athman AbdulHalim Hussein, who passed away on Wednesday in Mombasa.
The sad news was confirmed by Jamia Mosque Imam Sheikh Jamaludin Osman, who said the Chief Kadhi died earlier today in Mombasa. His burial is scheduled to take place after Asr prayers, in accordance with Islamic tradition.
“Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we will return. 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 in Mombasa,” Sheikh Osman wrote in a social media post.
The cause of death was not immediately disclosed, but tributes have begun pouring in from religious leaders, government officials, and members of the public who remember him for his humility, legal insight, and commitment to Islamic jurisprudence.Sheikh AbdulHalim Hussein was appointed Chief Kadhi in July 2023 by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). He emerged as the top candidate from a shortlist of five, earning the responsibility of heading the Kadhis’ Courts, which are constitutionally mandated to handle matters of personal law for Muslims, including marriage, divorce, and inheritance.
He succeeded Sheikh Ahmed Muhdhar, who retired after 12 years of distinguished service upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60. Though Hussein’s time at the helm was brief—just under two years—it was marked by a drive to modernize the Kadhi courts and strengthen public trust in Islamic judicial systems.
During his tenure, Sheikh AbdulHalim advocated for enhanced training of Kadhis, fair access to Islamic justice, and respect for the rights of Muslim women under Sharia law.
A Life of Scholarship and Service
Known for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence and quiet charisma, Sheikh AbdulHalim was respected across religious and political lines. His leadership was credited with improving the consistency of rulings from Kadhi courts and forging stronger cooperation between religious and civil institutions.
Fellow scholars have described him as a “moderate voice” who championed peace, interfaith understanding, and justice for all Kenyans.
“He was more than just a religious leader,” said one Nairobi-based Islamic scholar. “He was a bridge between the old and new generations of Muslim leadership in Kenya.”
National Mourning and Tributes
Following the news of his death, the Judiciary of Kenya and Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) issued condolences, praising his service and devotion. Muslim faithful from across the country have expressed shock and sadness, noting that his death leaves a major void in Kenya’s religious leadership.
“We pray that Allah grants him Jannatul Firdaus,” read a statement from SUPKEM.
The Chief Kadhi’s passing comes at a critical time when Muslim communities in Kenya continue to seek stronger representation and autonomy in matters of religious law.
Funeral Arrangement
Sheikh AbdulHalim will be laid to rest in Mombasa today after Asr prayers (the afternoon Islamic prayer), following Muslim burial rites. Mourners from across Kenya are expected to attend.
As Kenya comes to terms with the loss, the Judicial Service Commission is expected to announce the next steps, including naming an acting Chief Kadhi and initiating the process of appointing a new head of the Kadhis’ courts.
May Sheikh Athman AbdulHalim Hussein rest in peace. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un
