The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has staged protests over the alleged abduction of lawyer Abshir Abshir, demanding his immediate release and calling on the government to account for his whereabouts.
The demonstrations come six days after Abshir was reportedly abducted, with his family and fellow lawyers accusing state security agencies of failing to establish his whereabouts.
Speaking during the protests, East Africa Law Society (EALS) President Ramadhan Abubakar condemned what he described as growing harassment of lawyers and journalists, warning that the situation posed a threat to the rule of law.
“They’re now harassing lawyers, they have harassed members of the press, tomorrow they’ll harass more,” Abubakar said.
He faulted state agencies for reportedly denying knowledge of Abshir’s whereabouts, arguing that the government has a constitutional responsibility to protect every citizen.
“Agents of the state stated they do not have him, but the state has a duty to protect its citizens. We are not protected as lawyers,” he added.
Abubakar maintained that any allegations against the lawyer should be handled through the established judicial process rather than through unlawful actions.
“If allegations are made against him, he is supposed to stand trial. A threat to a lawyer is a threat to the rule of law,” he said.
LSK representatives reiterated their commitment to defending the Constitution, insisting that Abshir must be released immediately.
LSK President Charles Kanjama also strongly condemned alleged abductions, declaring that the legal fraternity would not tolerate impunity or the targeting of advocates.
“Enough is enough. No to abduction, no to impunity, no to abduction of lawyers,” Kanjama said.
Meanwhile, Abshir’s brother, Zakaria Abshir, expressed anguish over the six days without information about his brother’s whereabouts, insisting that what happened was an abduction.
“It’s been six days. I don’t want to say he is missing; he was abducted,” Zakaria said.
He questioned the circumstances surrounding the incident, arguing that individuals who openly carry firearms are generally identifiable and known to security agencies.
“What we have seen is the state maligning his name. We have seen serial murderers being tried. Why not allow him to face the law?” he posed.
Kanjama announced that the lawyers would proceed to Jogoo House, where they intended to present a memorandum to the Inspector General of Police, demanding answers and action over Abshir’s disappearance.
