03/03/2026
Justice Delivered: ISHTAR’s Paralegal Response Secures Accountability at the Grassroots In a judgment delivered on 03/03/2026], the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi handed down a decisive ruling in Republic v. Abel Meli & Another (Criminal Case No. MCCR/E295/2023]), sentencing the perpetrators for robbery with violence arising from acts of blackmail, extortion, and assault. This outcome marks a critical victory for survivor-centered justice and underscores the importance of timely grassroots legal intervention—an effort in which ISHTAR’s paralegal team played a central role. Upon receiving the initial report, ISHTAR’s paralegal responded promptly, ensuring the survivor’s immediate safety while providing clear legal guidance on reporting, documentation, and court procedures. Early intervention was key in preserving evidence and sustaining momentum through the criminal justice process, where many grassroots cases often stall or are abandoned. Throughout the proceedings, ISHTAR’s paralegal offered consistent accompaniment, liaising with law enforcement, tracking court appearances, and maintaining survivor-centered communication. This support extended beyond legal processes, affirming the survivor’s dignity and reducing the isolation frequently experienced by victims navigating formal justice systems. The court’s decision reinforces a fundamental principle: violence and exploitation will not go unpunished, and justice applies to all, without exception. It also sends a strong signal that community-based legal responses are vital to holding perpetrators accountable. ISHTAR acknowledges the partnership and support of the National Gay & Le***an Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC), whose continued commitment to expanding access to justice strengthens protections for marginalized and at-risk communities. This case further serves as a caution to community members to remain vigilant—particularly when engaging on dating apps and digital platforms—where risks of manipulation and exploitation persist. As ISHTAR continues its grassroots work, this case stands as a powerful reminder: when paralegal justice is accessible, responsive, and survivor-centered, accountability becomes possible—and justice moves closer to the people..
