LSK Intensifies Campaign for Missing Lawyer Abshir Abdi's Release

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has intensified its campaign to secure the release of missing advocate Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi. LSK President Charles Kanjama stated that the society will pursue all available legal and institutional interventions until Abdi is safely reunited with his family and colleagues. The LSK's efforts come amid growing concerns within the legal profession over Abdi's continued disappearance and demands for accountability from security agencies.

The High Court at Milimani is scheduled to deliver its ruling on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, in Habeas Corpus proceedings filed in connection with Abdi's disappearance. LSK disclosed that some respondents had filed responses to the application, but the society will seek further directions requiring the relevant parties to appear before court and account for Abdi's whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.

The LSK is mobilizing advocates to attend the proceedings and demonstrate solidarity with their missing colleague. Lawyers have been asked to conclude their court matters before joining the proceedings, and those with pending cases after midday have been encouraged to seek appropriate adjournments to enable them to participate. The planned demonstration follows a Purple Ribbon Protest March held on Friday, November 6.

During the protest march, lawyers and members of the public presented a memorandum to the Office of the Inspector General at Jogoo House. The society expects the National Police Service to respond substantively to the concerns and demands raised in the document, particularly regarding investigations and efforts to establish Abdi's whereabouts.

The matter has become a major concern within the legal fraternity, with lawyers warning that attacks and disappearances targeting members of the profession threaten the independence of advocates, access to justice, and the rule of law. Kanjama emphasized that the incident should not be viewed as an isolated matter affecting one advocate or law firm but as a wider threat to the entire legal profession.

Kanjama stated that the safety of one advocate is the safety of the entire legal profession, and an attack on one of them is an attack on all. He further warned that the society will sustain demonstrations and other lawful interventions throughout the week until Abdi is safely returned and meaningful action is taken by the relevant authorities.

The LSK has called on advocates to remain united and participate actively in the planned activities, emphasizing that intimidation, abductions, and enforced disappearances targeting legal practitioners must not be tolerated. The society will continue to push for Abdi's release and hold those responsible for his disappearance accountable.

Key points

• LSK President Charles Kanjama stated that the society will pursue all available legal and institutional interventions until Abdi is safely reunited with his family and colleagues.