Noel Wandera
21 October 2002
Nairobi — The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (Supkem) yesterday denied that powers proposed for the Chief Kadhi in the draft Constitution were a plot for the introduction of Sharia Law in Kenya.
Supkem said these were part of reforms presented to the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission (CKRC) by various cultural, social, political and religious diversities in order to achieve a cohesive society in the country.
If the draft Constitution is passed, the Chief Kadhi will have the powers to arbitrate in matters of personal law within the Muslim community. He will have authority to precide over divorce, marriage , burial, inheritance and succession cases.
Last week, a Christian clergyman voiced his concern over the new powers of the Chief Kadhi. He said this was tantamount to giving recognition to this office over Christianity.
However, Supkem said the allegation was a well-orchestrated campaign against the rights of Muslims to have the Kadhi's Court system arbitrate on matters of personal law within the Muslim community.
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