KAMPALA, Uganda
The President of the Law Society of Kenya, Charles Kanjama, has defended the right of East African lawyers to represent clients across member states, following the deportation of Kenyan Senior Counsel Martha Karua from Uganda earlier this week.
Speaking in response to Karua’s denial of entry by Ugandan authorities on Monday, Kanjama said lawyers within the East African Community should be allowed to advise and represent their clients in accordance with the laws of the countries where they practice.
“For East African lawyers, we are entitled to advise our clients and represent our clients according to the local law of each country throughout the East Africa region. This is going to continue despite the occasional incident that seems to be relapsing or taking us back,” Kanjama said.
Karua, a former Kenyan Justice Minister and a Senior Counsel, had travelled to Uganda as part of the legal team representing opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, she was denied entry and subsequently returned to Kenya. Neither Ugandan immigration authorities nor government officials immediately provided a public explanation for the decision.
The incident has sparked debate among legal professionals and human rights advocates across East Africa, with many questioning its implications for regional integration and the free movement of professionals within the East African Community.
Karua has been actively involved in the legal defence of Dr. Besigye and his co-accused, who are facing treason-related charges before Ugandan courts. Her exclusion from the country has drawn criticism from legal bodies in both Uganda and Kenya.
Kanjama argued that the East African Community was founded on principles that encourage cooperation among member states, including the movement of people, services and professional expertise across borders.
He warned that actions perceived as restricting legal representation could undermine confidence in the region’s commitment to integration and access to justice.
The controversy comes at a time when Uganda is facing increasing scrutiny over several high-profile political and legal cases involving opposition figures. Among them is former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, whose recent arrest and detention have also attracted criticism from legal practitioners and rights organizations.
Supporters of regional legal cooperation say East African lawyers have historically played important roles in cross-border litigation and human rights cases, helping to strengthen legal institutions and promote access to justice throughout the region.
The matter remains a significant point of discussion among lawyers, politicians and civil society groups across East Africa, with many closely watching whether further clarification will be provided by the governments involved.
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