The recent passing of Chief Kadhi of Kenya, Sheikh Athman Abdulhalim Hussein, on Thursday, July 10, 2025, has not only brought profound sorrow to the nation but also rekindled significant debate surrounding the appointment of his successor and the enduring relevance of the colonial pact that integrated the coastal strip into Kenya’s jurisdiction. This historic agreement, forged on October 5, 1963, between then-Prime Minister Jomo Kenyatta and former Zanzibar Prime Minister Mohamed Shamte, specifically allowed for the flourishing of Kadhi’s courts within the coastal region.

Chief Kadhi Hussein was laid to rest at Kikowani cemetery in Mombasa following prayers at Masjid Nuru in Bondeni. His funeral was attended by numerous mourners, including prominent national and local leaders who offered heartfelt eulogies. President William Ruto led the tributes, remembering Sheikh Hussein as a devoted servant of humanity who guided the Muslim faithful with unwavering dedication, humility, and wisdom. The President emphasized Hussein’s legacy as a great Islamic scholar deeply committed to justice, extending prayers for comfort to his family and the entire Muslim community.

Kanu national chairman Gideon Moi described Sheikh Hussein as a man of deep faith and rare wisdom, a spiritual leader whose devotion to the growth of the Muslim faith and the nurturing of moral values profoundly impacted countless lives across the country. Mining and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho lauded Hussein as a beacon of hope and wisdom, highlighting his approach to justice and Islamic jurisprudence, which reflected deep empathy, integrity, mentorship, and wisdom. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, among hundreds of mourners, acknowledged Sheikh Hussein's dedicated service to Kenyans and the Kenyan Ummah.

UDA secretary general Mr. Hassan Moar traced Sheikh Hussein's remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Malindi and Watamu, through his graduation from Al-Azhar University in Egypt with a degree in Islamic law, to his esteemed rise to Chief Kadhi of Kenya, noting his deep knowledge, humility, and unwavering service. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga commended the late Kadhi for championing equitable justice through judicial reforms, particularly for women and children in Kadhi courts. Abdul Masud, secretary of the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) in Homa Bay County, urged all Muslims to hold special prayers, lamenting the Chief Kadhi's demise as a significant loss for the entire country given his pivotal role in various capacities, including as a member of the judiciary, and his commitment to preaching peace.