CIPK Mourns Chief Kadhi Abdul Halim, Urges Unity and Reforms in Kadhis Court
Abdul Halim served as a leader in the Muslim community for less than two years, leaving behind a legacy of promoting unity among Muslims community.
Kenya’s Chief Kadhi Sheikh Athman AbdulHalim Hussein. Photo/Nairobi Monthky Law.
By Juliet Jerotich
The Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) in Uasin Gishu has expressed its condolences to the family of Chief kadhi Abdul Halim, who passed away yesterday.
Abdul Halim served as a leader in the Muslim community for less than two years, leaving behind a legacy of promoting unity among Muslims community.
Led by Abubakar Bini, the CIPK in the Rift Valley region praised Abdul Halim’s efforts in bringing the Muslim community together, stating that he did a commendable job during his short tenure. Bini emphasized that whoever is appointed to fill the position should follow in Abdul Halim’s footsteps and lead with integrity.
“Whoever is appointed to fill the gap should study the history of Halim before leading the Muslim religion and ensure that there is unity among all Muslims,” Bini said.
Bini also highlighted the shortcomings of the Kadhis Court, noting that there is no appellate structure to handle further legal processes, particularly in matters concerning bail and other judicial concerns. He emphasized that this gap needs to be addressed to ensure fairness, accountability, and access to justice within the Islamic legal framework.
“However, we want to add one thing. The Kadhis Court—is constitutional. But it has shortcomings. One of its main flaws is this: when a Muslim has a complaint and they win a case at a lower level, there is no Kadhis Court of Appeal. On issues like bail or other judicial matters, there is no appeal structure within the Kadhis Court system,” Bini said.
Bini also noted that Abdul Halim’s mission to unite the Muslim community was not completed, but his efforts were commendable. He called upon the Muslim community to remain united as a sign of respect for Abdul Halim.
Mahamud Kiplagat, a member of the CIPK in Eldoret city, said that the organization is working together to ensure a smooth transition of the position.
“We are working with our members to offer our support as we transition in this position. We say Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un (Indeed, to God we belong and to Him we shall return). May God help us in the work we are doing. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.”
Abdulaziz Muhammad, another member of the CIPK, emphasized the importance of unity in the Muslim community, citing the teachings of the Quran. “This is what Islam teaches us. This is what the Qur’an teaches us—that Islam should be united. In Islam, there is no tribalism or division. There is only one God, and Islam is one. Without unity, there is no Islam.”
The CIPK has urged the Muslim community to remain peaceful and united during this transition period, as they work to fill the position left vacant by Abdul Halim’s passing.
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