Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Athman Hussein was buried on Thursday afternoon at Seif Halwa Cemetery in Kikowani, Mombasa, just hours after his passing, drawing hundreds of mourners from across the country.

His body was laid to rest according to Islamic traditions following funeral prayers (Swalatul Janaza) held at 4 pm at Masjid Noor in Bondeni. The burial was attended by religious leaders, state officials, and ordinary citizens, all united in grief and tribute to a man who held one of the most respected positions in the country’s Islamic and judicial circles.

Leading the dignitaries was Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who described Sheikh Abdulhalim as a devoted servant of both faith and the nation.

President William Ruto also joined in mourning the Chief Kadhi, remembering him as a prominent voice in the country’s Islamic leadership and justice system.

“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,” the President said in a statement. “He will be remembered as a great Islamic scholar who was committed to justice.”

Chief Justice Martha Koome paid tribute to the late Kadhi’s commitment to justice, fairness, and integrity, especially in the handling 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.”

She went on to highlight his role in promoting peaceful coexistence and religious harmony across 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 added.

The Chief Justice extended condolences to the late Kadhi’s family and the entire Muslim community on behalf of the Judiciary, the Judicial Service Commission, and her office.

Sheikh Abdulhalim was appointed Chief Kadhi in July 2023 by the Judicial Service Commission, taking over from Sheikh Ahmed Muhdhar, who retired after serving in the role for 12 years. In his short time in office, Sheikh Abdulhalim was widely seen as a bridge-builder and a steady voice for unity, social justice, and the rule of law in Kenya’s multi-faith society.