The Uganda Law Council has declined to grant Martha Karua, Kenya’s former Justice Minister, a temporary practicing license, citing her application as politically motivated rather than professionally driven.
Karua had sought the license to represent Dr. Kizza Besigye and Obeid Lutale, who were arrested in Kenya and charged with possession of firearms by Uganda’s General Court Martial. She arrived in Uganda last week to finalize the process but was met with rejection.
Expressing her disappointment, Karua criticized the decision, highlighting its implications for regional unity.
“President Museveni has been a staunch advocate of the East African Community, yet Uganda is treating a Kenyan jurist in this unexpected manner,” she said.
Karua announced plans to take legal action and vowed to attend the court martial proceedings alongside other lawyers when Besigye’s trial resumes tomorrow.
In the interim, Erias Lukwago, Kampala’s Lord Mayor, will lead Besigye’s defense team.
