JSC pledges transparent recruitment of next Chief Kadhi

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible and transparent recruitment process for the next Chief Kadhi.

Speaking during a Stakeholder Engagement Forum on the Recruitment and Selection of the Chief Kadhi, JSC Vice-Chairperson Hon. Isaac Rutto reiterated the Commission’s commitment to a process that is transparent, inclusive, and compliant with the Constitution.

“The Commission is bound by the Constitution to conduct this recruitment with transparency, merit, and inclusivity—an obligation we take seriously. The appointment of a Chief Kadhi carries dimensions that go beyond a standard judicial recruitment process. It touches on questions of religious leadership, cultural trust, and community confidence,” he said.

The forum, held on June 4, brought together representatives from the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), the Jamia Mosque Committee, Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK), the Association of Muslim Lawyers, the Muslims Professional League Africa, the Kenya Muslims National Advisory Council (KEMNAC), Islamic scholars, and members of academia, among others.

Participants shared their expectations for the next Chief Kadhi, a constitutional office that sits at the intersection of faith, justice, and the rule of law.

The stakeholder engagement demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and public participation in the judicial appointments process.

The position of Chief Kadhi fell vacant following the death of Sheikh Abdulhalim Athman Hussein, who served in the role until his passing in July last year.

Following his death, the JSC appointed Sheikh Sukyan Omar Hassan as Acting Chief Kadhi.

“Sukyan Omar Hassan, Senior Principal Kadhi, has been appointed to act in the position of Chief Kadhi with effect from August 6, 2025.

“Omar will discharge all the duties and responsibilities of the Chief Kadhi during the acting period,” a statement issued by Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya said.

Sheikh Sukyan previously served as Deputy Chief Kadhi under the late Chief Kadhi.

In January this year, the Judicial Service Commission advertised the position of Chief Kadhi and invited qualified Kenyans to submit their applications.

The Chief Kadhi sits at the apex of the Kadhi’s Courts, which handle matters related to Islamic personal law such as marriage, divorce and inheritance.

Kadhis’ Courts are established under Article 170 of the Constitution.