By Mariam Lanji, July 10, 2025 Kenya is mourning the passing of its Chief Kadhi, Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein Athman, a towering figure in the country’s Islamic leadership and an unwavering advocate for justice, unity, and the proper recognition of Islamic institutions within the nation’s legal framework. Sheikh Abdulhalim was born in Malindi and raised in Watamu, Kilifi County. He began his formal education at Watamu Primary School and later joined Malindi High School, completing his A-level studies. Alongside his secular education, he was deeply grounded in Islamic knowledge, having studied at the renowned Madrasatul Tawheed in Malindi. Orphaned of his mother at a young age, Sheikh Abdulhalim was raised under the care of Sheikh Abdulrazak Sheikh Al-Amoody and Mama Khadija after his father, Ustadh Hussein Athman—himself a prominent da’wa figure in Watamu—entrusted him to their guardianship due to his religious responsibilities. After excelling in his studies, Sheikh Abdulhalim earned a full scholarship to the prestigious Al-Azhar University in Egypt, where he graduated in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Islamic Law (Sharia). His academic excellence and grounding in religious scholarship would lay the foundation for a distinguished career in service to the Muslim ummah of Kenya. Upon his return to Kenya, he began his service at Madrasatul Munawwarah in Majengo, Mombasa, as Deputy Administrator and also taught Islamic Religious Education and Kiswahili at R.G. Ngala Primary School. His commitment, humility, and deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence quickly earned him recognition. In January 2005, he was appointed as a Kadhi in Mombasa. He would later serve in Kwale and Nairobi before being elevated to the highest office in the Kadhi’s Court—Chief Kadhi of Kenya. Throughout his tenure, Sheikh Abdulhalim was a strong advocate for the institutional recognition of the Kadhi’s Court. He worked tirelessly to build unity among Muslims across the country. His leadership was marked by wisdom, diplomacy, and a deep sense of justice. His passing is a profound loss not only to the Muslim community but to the entire nation. Sheikh Abdulhalim leaves behind a legacy of integrity, scholarship, and service that will continue to inspire future generations. The janazah prayer will take place at masjid nuru bondeni and burial at kikowani cemetery.  We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Kenyan Muslim community. “Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we shall return.” (Qur’an 2:156) May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, elevate his rank, and grant him the highest station in Jannatul Firdaus. Ameen.