Kenyan Muslim Community Urges Transparency in Appointment of New Chief Kadhi
Sheikh Jamal Diriwa Omar, a prominent Muslim leader from the North Rift region, has urged the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to handle the appointment process free from political interference.
By Juliet Jerotich
The Kenyan Muslim community has called for a transparent and independent appointment process for the position of Chief Kadhi, which has been left vacant following the passing of the incumbent.
Sheikh Jamal Diriwa Omar, a prominent Muslim leader from the North Rift region, has urged the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to handle the appointment process free from political interference.
In a statement, Sheikh Omar expressed condolences to the Muslim community on the loss of the Chief Kadhi, and emphasized that the position is not a political one, but a constitutional office established to serve the Muslim community in matters related to Islamic law.
He noted that the JSC has the responsibility to advertise, vet, and appoint the new Chief Kadhi in line with the constitution and the law.
Sheikh Omar warned against attempts to politicize the process, saying that politicians and other actors should not influence the appointment. “We call on those who are trying to politicize this process—whether for personal, political, or ethnic interests—to stop immediately and step aside,” he said. “Let the Judicial Service Commission do its work independently as provided for by the Constitution.”
The Muslim community has appealed to President Dr. William Samoei Ruto to ensure that politicians and cabinet secretaries stay out of the appointment process and let it be led purely by religious principles and the law.
Sheikh Omar emphasized that the new Chief Kadhi should be chosen based on their knowledge of Sharia and the Qur’an, and their ability to unite the Muslim community.
The appointment process has sparked a serious discussion in Kenya, with some politicians and other actors seeking to influence the outcome. However, the Muslim community has made it clear that the appointment should be based on merit, and not on political considerations. As Sheikh Omar noted, “English fluency is not the primary qualification here; what matters is profound mastery of Islamic law and wisdom that comes from deep study of the Qur’an and the Sunnah.”
The JSC has been urged to consult with respected Islamic scholars to choose a candidate who embodies wisdom, deep knowledge of Sharia and the Qur’an, and the ability to interpret and apply the teachings of the Qur’an.
The Muslim community has expressed hope that the JSC will keep the process free from political interference and appoint a leader who will serve faithfully and uphold the dignity and purpose of the Chief Kadhi’s office as set out in the Constitution of Kenya.
The appointment of the new Chief Kadhi is a critical issue for the Muslim community in Kenya, and stakeholders will be watching closely to ensure that the process is transparent and fair. As Sheikh Omar concluded, “May God guide us all.”
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