NAIROBI, Kenya, Jun 22 — The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has urged Ugandan authorities to explain the denial of entry to Senior Counsel Martha Karua, warning that the incident raises broader concerns about the rule of law and the ability of advocates to freely discharge their professional duties within the East African Community.

📻 Breaking It Down

In a statement issued Monday, LSK said Karua was denied entry into Uganda while travelling to observe the arraignment of Kampala Lord Mayor and senior lawyer Erias Lukwago and support efforts aimed at safeguarding the rights of a fellow member of the legal profession.

The lawyers’ body noted the development came days after the arrest and detention of Lukwago, who serves as lead counsel in proceedings involving opposition leader Kizza Besigye and his co-accused Hajji Obeid Lutale.

It warned actions by immigration officials raised concerns about the ability of legal practitioners in the region to engage freely in matters touching on the administration of justice.

📌 What You Need to Know

“The reported denial of entry to Senior Counsel Karua raises serious concerns regarding the ability of advocates and members of the legal profession within the East African Community to freely engage on matters touching on the administration of justice and the Rule of Law,” LSK said.

While acknowledging Uganda’s sovereign right to regulate entry into its territory, LSK noted that the East African Community is founded on shared commitments to constitutional governance, regional cooperation, the rule of law and the free movement of East African citizens.

The society further pointed to previous decisions of the East African Court of Justice affirming the rights of citizens of partner states under the EAC Treaty, saying any limitations on those rights must be exercised lawfully, transparently and consistently with the regional framework.

The East Africa Law Society (EALS) also weighed in on the matter, expressing “profound concern” over reports that Karua was denied entry despite travelling to Uganda in connection with ongoing judicial proceedings involving Lukwago.

According to EALS, Karua’s passport was processed upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport before she was informed that she would not be permitted entry and was required to return to Kenya.

The regional bar association noted that while Karua was denied entry, LSK President Charles Kanjama and EALS Secretary General John Seka were allowed into Uganda, raising questions about the legal and factual basis of the decision.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya