Updated by, Anastasios Gordon Sekandi, EAT 19:46. Monday, 06 January, 2025.

The Uganda Law Council has granted Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua a special practising certificate, allowing her to represent veteran Ugandan opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide, Hajji Obeid Lutale. The two are currently on remand facing charges related to illegal firearms, among other cases.

On December 23, 2024, Ms. Karua resubmitted her application after the Council’s initial decision on December 6, 2024, to reject her request to represent her clients. In her resubmission, she expressed serious concerns about the decision, which had hindered her ability to defend Dr. Besigye and Hajji Lutale.

Ms. Karua’s initial application sought a special practising certificate to appear before the General Court Martial, where Dr. Besigye and Hajji Lutale were remanded. However, the Uganda Law Council declined the application, citing Section 18 of the Advocates Act. This section places restrictions on granting temporary rights to practise law in Uganda.

With the practising certificate now approved, Ms. Karua is set to appear in court as Dr. Besigye and Hajji Lutale return for their hearing on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.

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