Lawyers took to the streets of Nairobi to protest the alleged abduction of advocate Abshir Ahmedsadak, demanding that security agencies establish his whereabouts and secure his immediate release. The demonstrations, organised by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), aim to pressure the police to either produce Ahmedsadak in court or disclose his whereabouts and bring him before a court of law if he is suspected of committing any criminal offence.
LSK President Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama stated that Ahmedsadak's disappearance had caused distress to his family and sparked panic among members of the legal profession. Kanjama called on police officers to uphold the Constitution, describing it as the voice of the voiceless and a critical safeguard against violations of fundamental rights and freedoms.
Kanjama criticised the police for their inaction in tracing and investigating Ahmedsadak's disappearance, which has remained unresolved six days after the alleged abduction. The LSK President emphasised that even if Ahmedsadak was suspected of engaging in criminal activities, he remained entitled to justice and due process through the judicial system.
Nairobi LSK Branch Chairperson stated that criminal allegations should be addressed through lawful procedures rather than unlawful detention or disappearance. The chairperson insisted that Ahmedsadak's rights must be respected, and his disappearance should be investigated thoroughly.
Ahmedsadak's brother, Zachariah Abshir, appealed to the government to stop portraying his brother as a criminal. Zachariah expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding his brother's disappearance, urging authorities to provide answers and ensure his safe return. He stated that the family's hopes of finding Ahmedsadak were fading following statements by security agents suggesting that the missing advocate had been leading a double life.
The protests are expected to culminate in the presentation of a memorandum to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, demanding accountability and urgent action to establish Ahmedsadak's whereabouts. The LSK and lawyers in Nairobi are united in their demand for the safe return of Ahmedsadak and an end to the alleged abduction and detention of advocates.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of lawyers in Kenya, with many calling for an end to the alleged abduction and detention of advocates. The LSK has vowed to continue advocating for the rights of its members and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld in the country.
Key points
- The Law Society of Kenya organised protests in Nairobi to demand the release of abducted advocate Abshir Ahmedsadak.
- LSK President Charles Kanjama criticised the police for inaction in investigating Ahmedsadak's disappearance.
- Ahmedsadak's family and the LSK are demanding accountability and urgent action to establish his whereabouts.
