Ruto, leaders mourn Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein

Leaders across the political and religious class have mourned Chief Kadhi Sheikh Athman Abdulhalim Hussein, who passed away on Wednesday in Mombasa.

His death was announced on Thursday morning, by Sheikh Jamaludin Osman, the Imam of Jamia Mosque.

“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 said.

Following his death, various leaders across the country have sent their messages of condolence.

President William Ruto described Sheikh Abdulhalim as someone who devoted his life to the service of humanity and led the Muslim faithful with unwavering dedication, humility and wisdom.

The President said that he will be remembered as a great Islamic scholar who was committed to justice.

"We join the Muslim community in mourning the passing of Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein.

"We pray that Allah brings comfort to his family and the entire Muslim community at this time of sorrow," Ruto said.

Chief Justice Martha Koome described the passing of Sheikh Abdulhalim as a great loss to the Judiciary and the country at large.

Koome praised his unwavering commitment, saying the Kadhi served the Judiciary and the people of Kenya with unwavering dedication, humility, and integrity.

“On behalf of the Judiciary of Kenya, the Judicial Service Commission, and on my own behalf, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Chief Kadhi, the Muslim community in Kenya, and all those whose lives he touched through his service and leadership.”

 “As Chief Kadhi, he was a champion of justice, fairness and equity, particularly in matters of personal law within the Muslim community. We remember and honour him as a deeply spiritual and principled leader who championed peaceful coexistence, respect for diversity, and harmony in our society. 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 added.

Mining CS Hassan Joho noted that the late Chief Kadhi was not just a leader but a beacon of hope and wisdom.

He described his approach to justice and Islamic jurisprudence as those that reflected 'a deep empathy, integrity, mentorship and wisdom' further stating that he was a guiding light in the lives of many and will always be remembered as a unifying leader.

"We mourn not only the loss of an extraordinary leader but also the loss of a friend, a confidant and a source of strength for many. As we navigate this difficult time, we pray to the Almighty Allah (SWT) to grant him Jannatul Firdaus and provide his family with the strength, comfort and solace they need to carry on in his honour. Amin."

Health CS Aden Duale said, "He was a great scholar and leader of the ummah, humble and soft spoken, I miss a brother.”

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir posted his condolence message on X, saying, “I am extremely saddened by the passing of the Chief Kadhi of Kenya, Shk. Abdulhalim Hussein; indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we shall return. With the grace of the Almighty, he served the Kenyan Ummah dedicatedly in many ways.”

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka described Sheikh Abdulhalim as a respected scholar and a judicial figure of great honour.

“I extend my condolences to the family, the judiciary, Muslims and all Kenyans regarding the passing of our brother. May God Almighty give you comfort, patience and strength to bear this great loss,” he said.

“I convey my sincere condolences to the family of Chief Kadhi Sheikh Athman Abdulhalim Hussein, the Muslim community, and all Kenyans on his passing. A respected and principled leader, Sheikh Abdulhalim was instrumental in reforming the Kadhi courts and advancing justice, especially for women and children. His leadership and dedication to fairness made him a unifying figure in our nation. May his legacy of service and integrity continue to inspire,” Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru stated.

Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga praised Sheikh Abdulhalim as a humble yet transformative leader.

“Sheikh Abdulhalim championed unity, judicial reform, and equitable justice, particularly for women and children in Kadhi courts. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, the Muslim community, and all Kenyans. May his legacy of service, integrity, and bridge-building leadership endure. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un,” she added.

UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar remembered the Chief Kadhi as a man of quiet strength, Islamic scholarship, and unity.

“Sheikh Abdulhalim was a man of deep knowledge, humility and unwavering service to the Muslim Ummah and Kenyans at large,” he said.

“He will be remembered for championing the dignity of the Kadhi's office and uniting Muslims across Kenya. We will truly miss this remarkable servant of our society. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. Ameen.”