JSC appoints Hassan Omar Daffa as new Chief Kadhi

In its statement on Friday, the JSC said the office plays a central role in the administration of justice in matters of Muslim law, while also carrying religious and cultural significance for the Muslim community.

The Commission thanked Sukyan Hassan Omar, who has been serving as Acting Chief Kadhi, for ensuring continuity during the transition and paid tribute to the late Hussein, underscoring that his service to the Judiciary and the country was marked by integrity, humility and commitment to justice.

“The appointment follows the passing of the late Chief Kadhi, Sheikh Abdul Halim Hussein, whose dedicated service to the Judiciary and the people of Kenya was marked by integrity, humility and an unwavering commitment to justice,” stated JSC Chairperson Chief Justice Martha K. Koome.

“The Commission once again honours his contribution and the legacy he left behind.”

CJ Koome congratulated Daffa on his appointment, saying the JSC remained committed to fair, competitive, transparent and merit-based recruitment.

Daffa, who previously served as a Principal Kadhi, was selected after a recruitment process that attracted 14 applicants, nine of whom were shortlisted for interviews.

The interviews were conducted on November 2 and 3, 2026, with the Commission inviting observers from the Muslim community to witness the proceedings.

The recruitment process began on January 16, 2026, when the Commission declared the vacancy. It was followed by public participation in June, allowing members of the Muslim community and other stakeholders to give their views on the qualities and leadership expected of the new office holder.

The new Chief Kadhi holds a Master’s Degree in Source Methodology in Islamic Jurisprudence and a Bachelor’s Degree in Sharia and Islamic Studies, both from Umm Al-Qura University in Saudi Arabia.

Daffa also holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Mount Kenya University and is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.

The Office of the Chief Kadhi oversees all Kadhis’ Courts in the country, which handle matters of Muslim law relating to personal status, marriage, divorce and inheritance.