Uganda Law Council Blocks Karua from Defending Besigye in Court Martial

The Uganda Law Council (ULC) has rejected Martha Karua’s application for a temporary practicing license, barring the Kenyan politician and lawyer from representing Dr. Kizza Besigye in a case before the General Court Martial. Besigye, a Ugandan opposition figure, faces charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition allegedly acquired in Kenya.

In a letter dated December 6, 2024, ULC stated that Karua’s application failed to meet the requirements under Uganda’s amended Advocates Act. The council noted procedural deficiencies in her submission and criticized her reliance on Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who used a Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) email to support her application.

“The application was not brought under the current Advocates Act, and the advocate was not properly advised about the amendment to the Act,” ULC stated. The council deemed Lukwago's use of a public email for private legal matters “unethical.”

ULC also questioned Karua’s role, suggesting her involvement was politically rather than professionally motivated. “Dr. Besigye already has a team of over 30 advocates, and there is no indication that Karua would bring unique expertise unavailable in Uganda,” the council remarked.

Karua, speaking at a press conference in Kampala, expressed frustration over the decision. She argued that the accused has the right to select their own legal counsel, regardless of jurisdictional technicalities.

“With respect, it is for Dr. Besigye, not the Law Council, to choose his advocate or advocates of choice,” Karua said. She also criticized the council for declining her application instead of requesting additional documentation.

The council’s decision leaves Lukwago leading Besigye’s legal defense for the time being. Karua announced plans to take legal action and vowed to attend the court martial proceedings alongside other lawyers as Besigye’s trial resumes.