Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim dies
Chief Kadhi Athman Abdulhalim.
Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein Athman has died aged 55.
The family, led by his brother Sheikh Abubakar Hussein Athman, confirmed to the Nation on Thursday that he died at his home in Tudor, Mombasa, at around 12:45am.
Mr Hussein had, for the better part of last year, sought treatment in India and recovered, enabling him to return to Kenya and continue with his service.
Recently, he had also been seeking treatment and undergoing checkups at the Aga Khan Hospital from time to time.
“It’s sad that my brother has gone. He was born in 1970 and died today at 12:45 a.m. He has been ill. As a family, we’ve lost a pillar. My brother is always calm, down-to-earth and someone who loves unity. He has been a dedicated Chief Kadhi who was loved by all Muslims, other religions and Kenyans at large. May his soul rest in peace,” said Mr Abubakar.
Chief Justice Martha Koome termed his death a great loss to Kenya.
“Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein served the Judiciary and the people of Kenya with unwavering dedication, humility and integrity,” she stated in her condolence message.
Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein (left) when he announced the commencement of the Holy Month of Ramadhan. He is accompanied by Sheikh Mohamed Dor.
Abdulhalim's body is lying at his home in Tudor, and burial arrangements are underway.
The family said prayers would be conducted in the afternoon at Nuru Mosque in Bondeni, followed by burial shortly after at Kikowani Muslim Cemetery in Mvita Constituency, Mombasa County.
Following his death, several Kenyans and institutions sent their condolence messages.
The chairman of the Muslim Media Practitioners of Kenya (MMPK), Juma Namlola, said the hearts of many Muslim followers were won by the Chief Kadhi’s good deeds in life, worship, education, integrity, and service.
The Organizing Secretary of the Lamu Branch Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK), Ustadh Mohamed Abdulkadir, described the Chief Kadhi as a good man who always prioritised unity among Muslims in the country and resolved issues in a moderate and peaceful way.
Abdulhalim was appointed by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) in July 2023 as Chief Kadhi of the Republic of Kenya, replacing Sheikh Ahmed Muhdhar, who retired in 2022 after 12 years of service.