Law Council Backtracks, Grants Karua Temporary Certificate To Represent Besigye
Kampala| FileFactsUg
The Uganda Law Council has made a dramatic U-turn, granting Kenyan Senior Counsel Martha Karua a temporary practicing certificate.
This decision comes after the Council initially rejected her application on December 6, 2024, citing non-compliance with the amended Advocates Act.
The certificate will enable Karua to lead the legal team representing opposition strongman Dr. Kizza Besigye and his friend Hajji Obeid Lutale, who are facing charges in the General Military Court Martial. The high-profile case has drawn widespread attention, with many eagerly awaiting the outcome.
Karua’s initial application was met with criticism from the Law Council, which condemned her actions as unprofessional and indicative of a misunderstanding of Uganda’s legal practices. However, after resubmitting her application on December 23, 2024, the Council has now reversed its decision.
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) played a crucial role in supporting Karua’s resubmitted application, with President Isaac K. Ssemakadde emphasizing the importance of transparency and fairness in the Council’s approach to cross-border legal practice.
The decision to grant Karua a temporary practicing certificate has significant implications for regional legal cooperation and cross-border practice in East Africa. It sets a precedent for how legal institutions handle such applications in the future, reinforcing the principle of fairness in judicial processes.
Karua’s determination to represent Besigye and Lutale has been unwavering, despite the initial setback. Her commitment to justice and human rights is well-known, and her presence in the case is expected to bring a new level of expertise and passion.
The Uganda Law Council’s change of heart is a welcome development, demonstrating the Council’s willingness to reconsider its decisions and prioritize justice. As the case against Besigye and Lutale resumes tomorrow, all eyes will be on Karua and her team as they navigate the complexities of Uganda’s legal system.