JSC Appoints Hassan Omar Daffa as Kenya's New Chief Kadhi

NAIROBI, Kenya — The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has appointed Hassan Omar Daffa as the new Chief Kadhi of the Republic of Kenya, following a competitive recruitment process.

The announcement was made on Friday, November 13, by the Commission, which is chaired by Chief Justice Martha Koome.

Daffa takes over an office that became vacant following the death of the former Chief Kadhi, Sheikh Abdul Halim Hussein, whose service to the Judiciary and the country was recognised by the Commission.

In its statement, the JSC described the Office of the Chief Kadhi as an important institution in Kenya's justice system, with responsibilities extending beyond judicial administration to include religious and cultural significance within the Muslim community.

The Commission also congratulated Daffa, expressing confidence in his experience and professional background as he assumes the new responsibility.

Who Is Hassan Omar Daffa?

Before his appointment, Daffa served as a Principal Kadhi, bringing experience in Islamic jurisprudence and the administration of Muslim personal law.

He holds a Master's Degree in Source Methodology in Islamic Jurisprudence and a Bachelor's Degree in Sharia and Islamic Studies, both obtained from Umm Al-Qura University in Saudi Arabia.

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

His academic background combines Islamic legal scholarship with formal legal training, qualifications relevant to the administration of justice in Kadhis' Courts.

How the Recruitment Process Was Conducted

According to the JSC, the recruitment process began on January 16, 2026, when the Commission formally declared the position vacant and invited applications.

A total of 14 applications were received, with nine candidates shortlisted for interviews.

The Commission subsequently conducted interviews on November 2 and 3, 2026, as part of the selection process.

In June 2026, the JSC also held a stakeholder engagement forum that brought together representatives of Muslim organisations, legal professionals, academics and other members of the community.

The engagement provided an opportunity for stakeholders to share their expectations regarding the leadership, qualifications and professional standards required of the next Chief Kadhi.

Observers drawn from the Muslim community were also invited to witness the interview proceedings as part of efforts to promote transparency and accountability.

The Commission thanked the Muslim community, stakeholders and candidates who participated in the recruitment process.

It also recognised Sukyan Hassan Omar, who served as Acting Chief Kadhi during the transition, for maintaining continuity in the office.

What Does the Chief Kadhi Do?

The Office of the Chief Kadhi is established under Article 170(1) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.

The Chief Kadhi heads the Kadhis' Courts, which are mandated to determine questions of Muslim law relating to personal status, marriage, divorce and inheritance.

Under Article 170(5) of the Constitution, the jurisdiction of Kadhis' Courts is limited to matters of Muslim law involving parties who profess the Muslim religion and submit to the jurisdiction of the courts.

The office therefore plays an important role in ensuring that matters involving Muslim personal law are handled within Kenya's constitutional and judicial framework.

Beyond judicial responsibilities, the Chief Kadhi also carries significant religious and cultural responsibilities within the Muslim community.

JSC Pays Tribute to Late Chief Kadhi

In announcing the appointment, Chief Justice Martha Koome paid tribute to the late Sheikh Abdul Halim Hussein, whose service was described as being marked by integrity, humility and commitment to justice.

The Commission acknowledged his contribution to the Judiciary and the country, noting the importance of preserving the values associated with his leadership.

The JSC reaffirmed its commitment to fair, competitive, transparent and merit-based recruitment in line with the Constitution and principles of good governance.

New Leadership for Kenya's Kadhis' Courts

Daffa's appointment marks a new chapter for the Office of the Chief Kadhi as the Judiciary continues its mandate of strengthening access to justice and public confidence in the courts.

His experience in Islamic jurisprudence, Sharia law and legal practice is expected to inform his leadership of the institution.

As he assumes office, attention will turn to strengthening the administration of Muslim personal law, maintaining public confidence and ensuring that the Kadhis' Courts continue to serve Kenyans within the constitutional framework.