By KPC Reporter
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has expressed concern after Senior Counsel Martha Karua was denied entry into Uganda.
Karua was travelling to observe the arraignment of Hon. Erias Lukwago, an advocate recently arrested and detained in connection with proceedings involving Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale.
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In a statement, the LSK described the incident as troubling for the wider East African legal fraternity.
“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,” the Society said.
Karua, one of Kenya’s most distinguished advocates, had intended to travel to Uganda to support Lukwago and observe the legal proceedings.
The LSK noted that her mission was directly tied to safeguarding the rights of a fellow lawyer and ensuring justice was upheld.
“Her intended visit to Uganda was in connection with matters touching on the administration of justice and the welfare of a fellow advocate,” the statement added.
While acknowledging Uganda’s sovereignty and its right to regulate entry, the LSK emphasised that the East African Community (EAC) is built on shared commitments to constitutional governance, regional cooperation, and the free movement of citizens.
The Society pointed out that the East African Court of Justice has previously affirmed these rights, stressing that any limitations must be lawful, transparent, and consistent with the Treaty framework.
“The issue before us is larger than Hon. Erias Lukwago or Senior Counsel Martha Karua. It concerns the ability of advocates across East Africa to stand beside their clients, support their colleagues, observe legal proceedings, and discharge their professional responsibilities without undue hindrance,” the LSK declared.
The Society has called upon Ugandan authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding Karua’s denial of entry and to ensure that all actions taken align with the Constitution of Uganda, the EAC Treaty, and principles of justice.
LSK President Charles Kanjama affirmed the organisation’s solidarity with Karua, Lukwago, the Uganda Law Society, and the broader East African legal fraternity.
“We shall continue to monitor developments closely and remain steadfast in the defence of the Rule of Law, the independence of the legal profession, and the values that bind the East African Community together,” he said.
This incident has sparked debate over the balance between national sovereignty and regional integration, raising questions about the future of cross-border legal cooperation in East Africa.
