The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has warned of potential sanctions against Ugandan lawyers operating in Kenya, following the Uganda Law Council’s refusal to grant Martha Karua a temporary practicing license.
Karua, who was appointed lead counsel for a high-profile case involving Dr. Kizza Besigye and Obeid Lutale, failed for the second time to secure a license to represent her clients, who were abducted in Nairobi on November 16.
The two men were later charged with unlawful possession of firearms and remanded until January 7, 2025.
In a statement issued on December 10, LSK president Faith Odhiambo condemned the decision, calling it a blow to the integrity of Kenyan legal practice.
“To protect the integrity of legal practice in Kenya, the LSK is actively considering, after necessary consultations, the suspension of admission of advocates from the Uganda Law Society until such a time as reciprocal arrangements are appreciated and implemented,” Odhiambo said. “This measure, though regrettable, is necessary to uphold the dignity and equity of Kenyan legal practice.”
Karua’s application for a special license, submitted on November 25, was rejected by the Uganda Law Council on December 6.
The Council cited several reasons, including a lack of required documentation and concerns over Karua’s role as a potential witness in the case.
The Council also criticized her attendance at a December 2 court session without a valid license and her unannounced visit to the Chief Justice’s office on December 3, which they described as creating unnecessary disruption.
Odhiambo expressed disappointment at the decision, calling it a breach of the mutual cooperation between the Kenyan and Ugandan legal bars.
She emphasized that the regional collaboration in legal practice, which has allowed Ugandan lawyers to practice in Kenya, had been undermined by the Uganda Law Council’s actions.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@NairobiNews.co.ke
