The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has petitioned the High Court’s Criminal Division seeking permission for Senior Counsel Martha Karua to participate remotely in the ongoing trial of Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale.
In its application, the Law Society argues that Karua’s continued inability to enter Uganda has made it necessary to allow her to appear via video link in order to continue representing the defence team effectively.
ULS states that Karua’s declaration as persona non grataand her subsequent denial of entry into Uganda violate regional treaty obligations and international legal principles that protect the right of lawyers to represent their clients without undue interference.
The Society further argues that a virtual appearance would ensure continuity in the defence if the current travel restrictions remain in place.
The development follows reports that Karua, a Kenyan lawyer involved in the defence team for Dr. Besigye, has been unable to enter Uganda to participate in court proceedings.
Karua has filed a legal challenge before the High Court accusing Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, of ordering her deportation.
In an affidavit, Karua states that she was denied entry into Uganda on June 22, 2026, despite holding a Special Practising Certificate issued by the Uganda Law Council allowing her to appear before Ugandan courts.
She argues that being declared persona non gratais not a legally recognised ground for denying entry under applicable law, and says she was deported to Nairobi without being given reasons for the decision or an opportunity to challenge it.
Karua further contends that she was subjected to degrading treatment despite being an East African Community citizen travelling on a valid East African passport and holding authorization to practise law in Uganda.
The matter is now expected to proceed before the High Court as legal and constitutional questions surrounding her entry and participation in the Besigye trial continue to attract public and regional attention.
