The Uganda Law Council has granted Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua a special practising certificate, enabling her to represent Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide, Obeid Lutale, who are currently on remand.
Karua’s application, initially rejected on December 6, 2024, was resubmitted on December 23 after the Council denied her request to represent her clients before Uganda’s General Court Martial, where Dr. Besigye and Lutale are being held.
The initial rejection was based on Section 18 of the Advocates Act, which imposes restrictions on granting temporary rights for foreign lawyers to practice law in Uganda.
The Council’s decision to approve Karua’s request followed her concerns over the fairness of the initial rejection.
In her resubmitted application, Karua emphasized the importance of her legal representation for Dr. Besigye and Lutale, especially given her expertise in human rights law.
The move has garnered attention, as Karua is a prominent figure in Kenyan politics and a known advocate for justice and human rights.
Dr. Besigye and Lutale are expected to return to court on January 7, 2025, for their next hearing.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@NairobiNews.co.ke
