Opposition Advocate Karua Endures Humiliating’ Searches at Ugandan Court
NARC Kenya leader Martha Karua has raised concerns over the invasive body searches she endured while attending a court martial session in Uganda. Karua was present to offer legal support to opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who faces charges of illegal ammunition possession following his November arrest.
Speaking to the press on Monday, December 2, Karua recounted the ordeal, detailing the repeated searches she underwent. “I express my dismay at the humiliating mode of search that I was subjected to twice, and all the members of the court procession were subjected to. First at the gate, then as we entered the courtroom,” she lamented. Karua described the process as unethical and inappropriate, particularly for someone of her standing.
The searches occurred at multiple checkpoints, beginning at the court’s gate, continuing as she entered the courtroom, and once again inside the court chambers. Karua’s frustrations were compounded when she was denied audience by the court, being informed that she lacked a practising license issued by the Ugandan Law Council.
Despite the setbacks, Karua praised Besigye for his unwavering resolve. “We have been able to have an audience with our client in the court, and the client was very firm that we ought to apply for adjournment so that we can get the response from the Law Council,” she noted.
Following the adjournment application, the court ordered that Besigye and his co-accused, Abied Lutaale, remain in detention until December 10, 2024. The pair were reportedly abducted on November 20 while travelling in Nairobi to attend a book launch hosted by Karua. Besigye was subsequently charged at the Court Martial in Kampala for allegedly possessing firearms illegally and organizing meetings aimed at ousting President Yoweri Museveni.
Karua’s experience highlights the challenges faced by opposition figures and their advocates in Uganda, raising questions about judicial practices and the treatment of legal professionals in such high-profile cases.
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Opposition Advocate Karua Endures Humiliating’ Searches at Ugandan Court
