The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has called for the immediate release of Nairobi-based lawyer Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi, who has been missing for six days following an alleged abduction in Nairobi. LSK President Charles Kanjama led lawyers in a protest on Friday, November 6, 2026, starting at the Milimani Law Courts before proceeding to Jogoo House, where they intended to submit a memorandum to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.
During the demonstration, Kanjama condemned the reported abduction, warning that the growing cases of alleged forced disappearances and intimidation of legal professionals threatened the rule of law. He insisted that lawyers should be allowed to carry out their duties without fear of being targeted or intimidated.
Lawyer Abshir Abdi’s Disappearance
Abdi, who works at Abshir & Njagi Advocates, was reportedly abducted along Muchai Road, off Ngong Road, during the early hours of November 1. CCTV footage allegedly captured armed individuals pursuing him before forcing him into a waiting vehicle. His car was later discovered abandoned along the same road. His disappearance has raised concerns within the legal profession, particularly over reports linking the incident to a criminal case at the Makadara Law Courts, in which he is said to be a complainant and key witness.
Family Demands Answers Over Alleged Abduction
Abdi’s brother, Zakaria Abshir, joined the protesting lawyers and appealed to authorities to establish his brother’s whereabouts. He maintained that Abdi had been abducted rather than simply disappearing, questioning why those responsible for the incident had not been identified. Zakaria also criticised what he described as attempts to damage his brother’s reputation instead of focusing on finding him.
He argued that if Abdi had committed any offence, he should be presented before a court of law and allowed to defend himself. The family further expressed concern over the emotional distress caused by the disappearance, particularly to their parents, who remain unaware of their son’s whereabouts. Zakaria also disclosed that two other individuals were reportedly with Abdi when the incident occurred, with one said to be missing and the whereabouts of the other remaining unclear.
East Africa Law Society Condemns Incident
East Africa Law Society (EALS) President Ramadhan Abubakar also condemned the alleged abduction, warning that targeting legal practitioners threatens the administration of justice and constitutional protections. Abubakar raised concerns over what he described as increasing harassment of lawyers and members of the media. He maintained that the government has a responsibility to protect all citizens, including legal professionals, regardless of the cases they handle.
He called for Abdi’s safe return, insisting that any accusations against him should be addressed through established legal procedures rather than unlawful detention.
Family Files Habeas Corpus Application
Meanwhile, Abdi’s family has filed a habeas corpus application at the Milimani High Court seeking orders compelling security agencies to disclose his whereabouts and produce him before the court. The application comes as lawyers continue demanding accountability and answers from the relevant authorities.
The LSK has maintained that Abdi’s disappearance must be urgently investigated and that those responsible, if identified, should be held accountable. The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of lawyers, the protection of human rights and the need for security agencies to uphold the Constitution.
