President William Ruto led other leaders to eulogise Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein, who died and was buried on Thursday in Mombasa in accordance with Islamic rites.

The president said Hussein devoted his life to the service of humanity and led the Muslim faithful with unwavering dedication, humility, and wisdom.

“He will be remembered as a great Islamic scholar who was committed to justice. We pray that Allah brings comfort to his family and the entire Muslim community at this time of sorrow,” said the head of state.

Kanu national chairman Gideon Moi described Hussein as a man of deep faith and rare wisdom.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the late Chief Kadhi Athman Abdulhalim Hussein. A man of deep faith and rare wisdom, Sheikh Abdulhalim was 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.

“May the Almighty Allah (SWT) grant him Janatul Firdaus and comfort those left behind with peace and strength during this difficult time,” said Gideon.

Mining and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho Sheikh Hussein was not just a leader but a beacon of hope and wisdom.

“His approach to justice and Islamic jurisprudence reflected a deep empathy, integrity, mentorship, and wisdom,” Joho said.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, who was among hundreds of mourners yesterday, said Sheikh Hussein served Kenyans with dedication.

“Extremely saddened by the passing of the Chief Kadhi of Kenya, Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein. Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we shall return. With the grace of the Almighty, he served the Kenyan Ummah dedicatedly in many ways,” said Nassir. 

UDA secretary general Mr. Hassan Moar said Sheikh Hussein was a man of deep knowledge, humility, and unwavering service to the Muslim Ummah and Kenyans at large. 

“From humble beginnings in Malindi and Watamu, to graduating from Al-Azhar University in Egypt with a degree in Islamic law, and rising through the ranks to become Chief Kadhi of Kenya, Sheikh Abdulhalim’s remarkable journey is one of purpose and impact,” he said. 

In Homa Bay, Governor Gladys Wanga described the Kadhi as a leader who championed equitable justice through judicial reforms.

“We have lost a humble and transformative leader who championed unity, judicial reforms, and equitable justice, particularly for women and children in Kadhi courts in Kenya,” Wanga said.

Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) secretary in Homa Bay County, Abdul Masud, told all Muslims to hold special prayers for the late chief kadhi, describing the death as a setback.

“As Muslims, the Chief Kadhi’s demise is a serious loss to us. He used to play a significant role for Kenyans in various capacities, including being a member of the judiciary. His demise is a loss for the entire country,” Masud said.

He said the country had lost a leader who was committed to preaching peace in the country.