ENTEBBE, Uganda
Kenyan senior counsel and former Justice Minister Martha Karua was reportedly denied entry into Uganda today and ordered to return to Kenya shortly after arriving at Entebbe International Airport, according to the Uganda Law Society.
Karua, who is part of the legal team representing opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused Hajji Obeid Lutale, said she was not given any official explanation for the decision.
In a statement shared by the Uganda Law Society, Karua was reportedly stopped by immigration officials upon arrival and instructed to return to her country.
“Dr. Kizza Besigye and Obeid Lutale’s lead counsel Hon. Martha Karua, SC, denied entry at Entebbe International Airport. She has been ordered to return and given no reason,” the Uganda Law Society said.
Karua had travelled to Uganda alongside Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo Kanjama (SC). According to the statement, Kanjama was allowed entry into the country while Karua was denied access.
Karua has been actively involved in the legal defence of Dr. Besigye and Lutale, who are facing treason-related charges before Ugandan courts.
The Kenyan politician and lawyer has attended several court sessions in Uganda and has publicly raised concerns about the treatment of opposition figures and the administration of justice in politically sensitive cases.
The circumstances surrounding Karua’s denial of entry immediately drew reactions from legal professionals, human rights advocates, and opposition supporters.
At the time of reporting, Ugandan immigration authorities and the Ministry of Internal Affairs had not publicly explained the reasons for the decision.
Legal observers noted that states generally have the authority to regulate entry into their territory, but the lack of an official explanation has fueled questions about the move.
The development comes amid increased regional and international attention on ongoing legal proceedings involving Besigye, Lutale, Lukwago and other opposition figures.
Also Read: Erias Lukwago Appears Before Makindye Court
