Kampala, (UG):- The Uganda Law Council has called for a special meeting to reconsider an application for a temporary practicing certificate submitted by Dr Kizza Besigye’s Kenyan lawyer Martha Wangari Karua.
The meeting, set for Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 am marks a significant development following the initial rejection of her application in December 2024.
“The Law Council has called for a special meeting on Monday, 6 January 2025, at 10:00 am, to consider an application for a temporary practicing certificate from the distinguished Kenyan advocate Martha Karua, Senior Counsel, which she resubmitted on the afternoon of 23 December 2024, together with a communication from the Uganda Law Society expressing grave concerns about the Council’s prior decision to deny Ms Karua’s initial application on 6 December 2024,” A press statement released by Uganda Law Society President Isaac K. Ssemakadde on Friday reads in part.
Ssemakadde highlighted the importance of the upcoming meeting as an opportunity for the Council to revisit its stance on cross-border legal practice.
“This is a crucial opportunity for the Council to reexamine its approach to requests for cross-border legal practice and demonstrate true transparency and fairness,” the statement reads.
Ssemakadde further emphasized the importance of the decision, noting that it could set a precedent for future cross-border legal engagements.
The rejection of Ms. Karua’s initial application on December 6, 2024, raised questions about the inclusivity of Uganda’s legal system, especially regarding distinguished foreign practitioners.
Her resubmission, backed by the Uganda Law Society, underscores her commitment to obtaining the necessary clearance to represent her clients in Uganda.
If granted the certificate, Ms Karua will lead the defence team for Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale at the general court-martial scheduled for the following day, January 7, 2025.
The high-profile case is expected to attract considerable public and legal interest, given the high-profile nature of the individuals involved.
As the legal fraternity awaits the outcome of the January 6 meeting, observers suggest the Council’s decision could pave the way for greater collaboration among East African lawyers.
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