Martha Karua reveals that her application for a temporary law practice certificate in Uganda to defend a key opposition leader was rejected.
Karua, representing Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, disclosed that the Ugandan Law Council declined her request due to missing notarized copies of her Kenyan practicing certificate and letter of good standing.
In a letter shared on social media, Karua noted that the council claimed additional issues, including absent nationality and academic documents for herself and co-counsel Erias Lukwago, Kampala’s mayor. Karua expressed disappointment, arguing the council should have requested the missing paperwork rather than outright rejecting her application.
The council also questioned whether Karua brought any "special skill" to the case, to which she responded that Besigye’s constitutional right allows him to choose his legal representation.
Did you read this?
Furthermore, the council accused Karua of misrepresenting herself as licensed to practice in Uganda during a December 2 court session. Karua refuted the claim, explaining that Lukwago introduced her as awaiting approval of her special license, which led to the trial’s adjournment.
Karua condemned the council’s actions, stating they undermined her integrity and raised questions about impartiality. She also criticized the council for harming regional cooperation under the East African Community spirit of “Jumuiya.”
Karua leads a 50-member legal team, including representatives from the Pan-African Lawyers Union and the International Commission of Jurists, to defend Besigye and Hajj Obeid Lutale. The duo, arrested in Kenya and transported to Uganda on November 16, faces charges of illegal firearm possession.
Critics allege the charges are politically motivated. The case, initially set for December 2, was adjourned to December 10 to allow Karua to seek her temporary license.
