NAIROBI- The Judicial Service Commission has commenced the recruitment process to appoint Kenya’s next Chief Kadhi, with nine candidates shortlisted for the prestigious constitutional office.
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has shortlisted nine candidates for the position of Chief Kadhi of the Republic of Kenya, marking a significant step towards filling the senior judicial office responsible for overseeing the country’s Kadhis’ Courts.
The candidates are expected to undergo interviews as the Commission seeks to identify a suitable candidate to head the Kadhis’ Courts and provide leadership in the administration of justice concerning matters governed by Islamic law.
The shortlisted candidates are:
- Hon. Hassan Omar Daffa
- Mohamed Juma Mwaduga
- Dr. Abuu Mohamed Mwalimu
- Hon. Sukyan Hassan Omar
- Dr. Hassan Kinyua Omari
- Hon. Abdiaziz Maalim Mohamed
- Hon. Mohamed Abdalla Kutwaa
- Hon. Mohamed Garama Randu
- Hon. Juma Ali Abdalla
The recruitment process is being conducted by the JSC in accordance with the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, the Kadhis’ Courts Act (Cap. 11) and the Judicial Service Act, 2011.
Qualifications and Selection Criteria
According to the recruitment guidelines, applicants must possess a degree in Islamic Law or its equivalent from a recognised university and profess the Muslim religion. A master’s degree in a relevant discipline is considered an added advantage.
Candidates are also required to demonstrate at least ten years of experience as distinguished academics in Islamic law, Islamic law practitioners or professionals in related fields.
Other requirements include good conduct in accordance with the Islamic faith, membership in a recognised Islamic association and the ability to communicate effectively in English, Kiswahili and Arabic.
The applicants must also satisfy the leadership and integrity requirements under Chapter Six of the Constitution and demonstrate proficiency in computer applications.
Leadership and Professional Competencies
The Commission is expected to assess candidates on a range of professional and leadership competencies necessary for effective administration of the Kadhis’ Courts.
These include strategic leadership, management and interpersonal skills, sound judgement, decision-making, excellent communication, attention to detail, analytical and negotiation abilities, confidentiality and integrity.
Other important competencies include organisational and planning skills, results-oriented leadership, professional and technical competence, research and data management, as well as effective time management and prioritisation.
Understanding the Mandate of the Chief Kadhi
The Office of the Chief Kadhi is established under Article 170 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.
The Chief Kadhi heads the Kadhis’ Courts, whose jurisdiction is constitutionally limited to determining questions of Muslim law relating to personal status, marriage, divorce and inheritance.
However, this jurisdiction applies only where all parties involved profess the Muslim religion and submit to the jurisdiction of the Kadhis’ Courts.
Importantly, Article 170 does not confer general judicial authority on the Chief Kadhi over all matters affecting the Muslim community.
A Process That Includes Public Participation
The JSC has emphasised the importance of transparency, merit and inclusivity in the recruitment exercise, recognising that the office occupies a unique position at the intersection of faith, justice and the rule of law.
The Commission has also incorporated stakeholder and public engagement into the process to allow members of the Muslim community and the wider public to contribute their views and expectations regarding the leadership of the Kadhis’ Courts.
The appointment of the next Chief Kadhi is expected to be an important milestone for the Judiciary and Muslim communities across Kenya, particularly in strengthening institutional leadership and the administration of justice in matters governed by Islamic law.
As the recruitment process progresses, attention will remain on the candidates’ professional experience, knowledge of Islamic law, integrity, leadership abilities and commitment to constitutional principles.
The ultimate responsibility rests with the Judicial Service Commission to conduct a credible selection process and identify a candidate who meets the constitutional and professional requirements of the office.
