Martha Karua Rebukes Uganda Law Council After Denial of Temporary Practicing Certificate
Narc Kenya Party leader Martha Karua has issued a strongly-worded response to the Uganda Law Council following its refusal to grant her a temporary practicing certificate. The certificate would have allowed her to serve as lead counsel for Uganda’s opposition leader, Kizza Besigye, in his ongoing legal battles.
In a letter dated Monday, December 9, Karua addressed her concerns to Navakooza Margaret, the council’s secretary, expressing “dismay” at the council’s December 6 decision to decline her application.
“I have received with dismay your letter… declining my application for a special practicing certificate,” Karua began, before systematically addressing and debunking the six grounds cited for the rejection.
The council had alleged that her application was incomplete, citing missing notarization of her Kenyan practicing certificate and supporting documents, including her nationality proof and academic qualifications. However, Karua contended that the council should have requested any additional paperwork if required.
Highlighting her collaboration with Erias Lukwago, the Lord Mayor of Kampala and a practicing advocate, Karua dismissed suggestions that his credentials were in question. She also rebutted claims about her lack of “special skills” required for the role, stating, “It is Dr. Besigye’s constitutional right to appoint a lawyer/s of choice, including a lead counsel.”
Karua further rejected accusations of impersonating a certified Ugandan lawyer during the December 2 court hearing, clarifying her role as a visiting jurist awaiting formal approval.
“As a visiting Jurist, I sat with Mr. Lukwago, who introduced me to the court and informed them I was waiting for the approval of my special license,” she explained. She condemned the council’s accusations as baseless, describing them as an attack on her character and a threat to the council’s impartiality.
Karua also addressed her presence at the Chief Justice’s chambers, noting that no practicing certificate was needed for an administrative inquiry. She criticized the council’s disparaging remarks, which she argued undermined regional unity and professionalism.
Concluding her letter, Karua lamented the council’s “disparaging and personalized aspersions,” urging respect for professional principles and regional cooperation under the spirit of Jumuiya (East African unity).
This dispute comes after Karua applied on November 27 for a temporary certificate to represent Besigye, who faces charges in a Ugandan military court following his alleged abduction from Kenya. The Ugandan opposition leader was accused of possessing firearms and ammunition after attending Karua’s book launch in Nairobi.
Karua has remained vocal in her support for Besigye, emphasizing his right to a defense team of his choice. Despite the obstacles, she continues to advocate for justice in the high-profile case.
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Martha Karua Rebukes Uganda Law Council After Denial of Temporary Practicing Certificate
