Kenya’s Chief Kadhi, Sheikh AbdulHalim, appointed by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), passed away today minutes after midnight at his home in Tudor, Mombasa, at the age of 55.

The esteemed scholar had served in the position for approximately a year before his untimely death.

Tributes poured in from leaders across the country, led by President William Ruto, who described him as humble and loving.

On his official Facebook page, President Ruto wrote: “We join the Muslim community in mourning the passing of Chief Kadhi Sheikh Abdulhalim Hussein. Sheikh Abdulhalim 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.”

Sheikh AbdulHalim’s death comes as the Muslim community awaited a significant ruling on the inheritance rights of children born out of wedlock.

The funeral of the late Chief Kadhi is scheduled to take place today after Asr prayers (Evening prayers).