The accreditation of Ms. Martha Karua, a Kenyan Senior Counsel and lead advocate for opposition figure Dr. Kiiza Besigye, remains unresolved just a day before the Makindye court martial hearing. Despite submitting all the necessary documents on November 25, Karua has yet to receive the special practice certificate required to represent Kizza Besigye in Ugandan courts. This delay has raised serious concerns about the Uganda Law Council’s motives and left Besigye’s defense team grappling with uncertainty ahead of a politically sensitive trial.
Karua’s application included credentials from the Kenyan High Court, a practicing certificate issued in August 2024, and a formal letter of instruction from Lukwago & Co. Advocates. Under the Advocates Act of Uganda, foreign lawyers can practice locally for specific cases if they obtain a special practice certificate. Despite Karua’s compliance with these provisions, the unexplained delay has left her participation in jeopardy.
Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, a key lawyer on Besigye’s team, has vowed to fight for Karua’s accreditation, stating, “We will do everything possible to ensure Martha Karua is part of this case.” However, legal experts warn that without the certificate, Karua may not be allowed to lead the defense. This potential exclusion has fueled speculation, with some critics viewing the delay as a strategic move to weaken Besigye’s legal defense in what many perceive as a politically motivated trial.
Karua’s involvement is seen as critical, given her reputation as a staunch advocate for democracy and justice. Her absence would significantly affect the defense’s strategy and raise broader questions about judicial independence in Uganda. Lawyer Lukwago remains determined, declaring, “With or without the certificate, Martha Karua will be in court.”
Dr. Kizza Besigye’s troubles began on November 16 while attending Karua’s book launch in Nairobi. He was detained under suspicious circumstances and transported to Uganda. Following his disappearance, his wife, Ms. Winnie Byanyima, publicly raised alarms, prompting media scrutiny. Days later, Dr. Besigye was presented in court alongside his associate, Mr. Obed Lutale. Both men face charges of illegal possession of firearms and threatening the security of the defense forces.
As the December 2 hearing looms, the delay in Karua’s accreditation casts a shadow over the case. The defense team and political observers now wait anxiously for the Uganda Law Council’s next move, aware that its decision could influence not only the trial’s outcome but also broader perceptions of justice and fairness in Uganda’s legal system.
