Sukyan Omar Hassan has been appointed as the acting Chief Kadhi of Kenya, effective August 6th, 2025.
Hassan has been serving as the Senior Principal Kadhi. His appointment follows the untimely passing of Chief Kadhi Sheikh Athman Abdul-Halim on July 10.
In a statement released by Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) says the decision was reached it during its meeting held on July 14, 2025, in accordance with Article 170 of the Constitution and Section 2 of the Kadhis’ Court Act.
“The Judicial Service Commission at its meeting held on 14th July 2025 and in accordance with Article 170 of the Constitution and Section 2 of the Kadhis Court Act, considered and approved the appointment of a serving Kadhi to act in the position of Chief Kadhi”, the statement read.
“The position of Chief Kadhi fell vacant following the demise of Hon. Athman Abdul-Halim on 10th July, 2025. Consequently, Hon. Sheik Sukyan Omar Hassan, Senior Principal Kadhi has been appointed to act in the position of Chief Kadhi with effect from 6th August, 2025,” it added.
According to the commission, Hassan will hold the position for three months or until the position is substantively filled, whichever comes first. He will be the twelfth holder of the office of Chief Kadhi.
“Hon. Sukyan Omar will discharge all the duties and responsibilities of the Chief Kadhi during the acting period. The acting appointment is for a period of three (3) Months or until the position is substantially filled, whichever comes earlier”, Mokaya stated.
