Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein buried in Kikowani, Mombasa as nation mourns Islamic leader
Until his death, Sheikh Abdulhalim was widely regarded as a unifying figure in Kenya’s multi-faith society and a staunch advocate of the rule of law, equity and social harmony.
Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Athman Hussein was laid to rest on Thursday afternoon at Seif Halwa Cemetery in Kikowani, Mombasa, just hours after his passing.
More To Read
- Condolences pour in as nation mourns Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein
- Tourism stakeholders urge fewer travel barriers, more direct flights to Mombasa to boost arrivals
- Financial autonomy: Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir urges Ruto to empower counties
- EPRA shuts down illegal gas refilling plant in Mombasa's Majengo in multi-agency raid
- Mombasa taps youth groups to lead waste collection in new clean-up drive
- Rewriting blood donation story: How Mombasa nurse is saving lives through mobile app
He was interred in accordance with Islamic rites, following funeral prayers (Swalatul Janaza) held at 4 pm at Masjid Noor in Bondeni.
Hundreds of mourners—including prominent Muslim clerics, government officials, and members of the public—gathered to pay their final respects to Sheikh Abdulhalim, who served as Kenya’s Chief Kadhi and head of the Kadhi Courts.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir led dignitaries at the prayer service and burial, describing him as a devoted servant of both faith and country.
In a statement, President William Ruto mourned Sheikh Abdulhalim as a “towering figure in Kenya’s Islamic and judicial leadership,” praising his lifelong commitment to justice and community service.
Sheikh Abdulhalim was appointed Chief Kadhi in July 2023 by the Judicial Service Commission, succeeding Sheikh Ahmed Muhdhar. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
In service of humanity
“We join the Muslim community in mourning the passing of Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein. He devoted his life to the service of humanity and led the Muslim faithful with unwavering dedication, humility, and wisdom,” Ruto said.
“He will be remembered as a great Islamic scholar who was committed to justice.”
Chief Justice Martha Koome also expressed sorrow at the Kadhi’s passing, paying tribute to his principled leadership and unwavering service in matters of Islamic personal law.
“As Chief Kadhi, he was a champion of justice, fairness, and equity, particularly in matters of personal law within the Muslim community,” she said.
“His unwavering dedication, humility, and integrity defined his service both to the Judiciary and the nation.”
Hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their final respects to Sheikh Abdulhalim. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
Religious tolerance
Koome further praised Sheikh Abdulhalim for his commitment to peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance in Kenya’s diverse society.
“We remember and honour him as a deeply spiritual and principled leader who stood for peaceful coexistence, respect for diversity, and harmony in society,” she noted.
On behalf of the Judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission, and her own office, the Chief Justice extended condolences to the late Kadhi’s family and the wider Muslim community.
Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Athman was laid to rest at Seif Halwa Cemetery in Kikowani, Mombasa. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
“May Almighty Allah grant Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein the highest place in Jannah and comfort his family and loved ones during this time of grief,” she said.
Sheikh Abdulhalim was appointed Chief Kadhi in July 2023 by the Judicial Service Commission, succeeding Sheikh Ahmed Muhdhar, who retired after 12 years of service upon reaching the retirement age of 60.
Until his death, Sheikh Abdulhalim was widely regarded as a unifying figure in Kenya’s multi-faith society and a staunch advocate of the rule of law, equity and social harmony.
Top Stories Today
