In the footprints of justice
In the law profession Muslim women make up a small number of law practitioners in Kenya. Asli Osman an advocate specializing in commercial disputes and family law at Ahmednasir and Abdikadir & CO. Advocates is at the forefront of the legal justice system. Originally from Mombasa County she knew even as a young child that she always wanted to become a lawyer, ensuring she lived up to her dreams.
“My husband is understanding”-Asli.
Even though balancing a career and family life is challenging for many women, as a mother, wife and a career woman Asli says, she is fortunate to have a supportive husband. Her tactic to coping is due to the large support system she receives from her family including her husband. “I have a ten month old daughter and I have to work late, at times twelve hours a day on files, it is hectic but my husband is understanding.” she said.
According to Asli many of her female colleagues prefer to practice conveyance law. Where they are not required to address the court and can instead settle disputes through paper work. Asli, has been practicing law for the past four years at the same firm, she added she cannot picture herself working anywhere else other than Ahmednasir and Abdikadir & CO Advocates.
“I studied law at the university of Nairobi and did my bar exam at the Kenya School of Law”-Asli.
However, the journey to fulfilling her dream was not easy and required a lot of hard work and dedication. “I studied law at the university of Nairobi and did my bar exam at the Kenya School of Law which usually takes one and a half year to complete”. She said.
Referring to article 81 (b) of the Constitution that states “not more than two-thirds of members of elective public bodies shall be of the same gender”, she believes it is a step to enforcing gender equality. However, in her opinion this is not practical in reality, nominated seats for women might not be accessible to any average Kenyan woman, it might only serve prominent women she emphasized, and therefore leaving out the most qualified women for the post.
She handles various cases including, land disputes and divorce cases among others. However, she says many of her clients who file family disputes and divorce cases choose to settle these cases at the High Court rather than through the Kadhi’s Court due to laxity and delays. Despite this, she still provides whatever service is suitable for her clients.
Her advice to young women pursuing a similar career path is that they should not let society limit them; instead one should set their goals and work towards them within the realms of their religion. She believes when you empower a woman, you empower a community.
Written by: Leila Adam
Writer at Iwomantoday
Edited by: Fatma Adam
