Lawyers protest in Nairobi over the disappearance of advocate Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi.
LSK members demand the release of Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi and an independent examination of records linked to his disappearance.
Nairobi lawyer protests have entered their seventh day as advocates demand answers over Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi’s disappearance. Law Society of Kenya (LSK) members gathered outside Vigilance House, the Kenya Police headquarters, calling for his release.
Abdi allegedly suffered an abduction outside Kilimani Police Station on November 1. He has been missing for ten days, with authorities offering no word on his whereabouts.
The demonstrations follow a peaceful march from the Milimani Law Courts to Jogoo House, the Inspector-General’s office. Lawyers want police to account for Abdi as the Constitution requires and produce him alive before a court immediately.
They have also resolved to stop work and seek adjournments in courts nationwide until they find their colleague. LSK members have pledged to pursue every lawful avenue.
Nairobi lawyer protests draw rights defenders
Human rights defenders have also joined the advocates, marching towards Vigilance House and Jogoo House. The demonstrations continue despite DCI Director Mohamed Amin’s denial of police involvement in Abdi’s disappearance.
Meanwhile, lawyers and rights activists want an independent examination of CCTV footage, vehicle tracking logs and communication records. They are also asking authorities to protect Abdi’s family, his legal representatives and witnesses in proceedings linked to his case.
On November 9, a Makadara Law Courts magistrate summoned five individuals over their alleged involvement in the disappearance. They include officers from the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit, the National Intelligence Service and military intelligence.
The five are due to appear on November 13 for cross-examination. An LSK advocate and the complainant in a related court case are expected to question them.
