Lawyers to stage nationwide strike until advocate Abshir Abdi is found

Lawyers and family members have gathered at the Supreme Court and Jogoo House to demand answers from the police regarding the whereabouts of lawyer Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi, who was abducted on November 1 near Kilimani in Nairobi. Abshir, whose abduction remains unexplained, has been the subject of unconfirmed reports suggesting he may be in Somalia.

On Tuesday, the High Court in Milimani granted permission for a habeas corpus application to determine the missing lawyer's location. The judge, Alexander Muteti, acknowledged the gravity of the allegations against state security agents and emphasized the state's capability in handling cases involving disappearances and complex criminal investigations.

The lawyer's family and supporters believe photographs and video footage may help identify the individuals involved in his arrest, potentially shedding light on his disappearance. The Law Society of Kenya has vowed to summon senior security officials to address the recent cases of abductions and enforced disappearances in the country, with concerns raised about the delays in IPOA investigations, particularly those involving serious human rights violations.

Abshir's family, in particular, are urging the government to intervene and reveal the true fate of their loved one.