National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) party leader Martha Karua faced a procedural obstacle in her bid to represent Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye at the General Court Martial in Kampala. Karua, renowned for her legal acumen and activism, had yet to secure a special practicing certificate required to represent clients in Ugandan courts.
The court session resumed on the scheduled date, but Karua was unable to participate as lead counsel due to the pending approval of her temporary practicing certificate by the Law Council of Uganda. This procedural requirement meant Karua’s ability to contribute to Besigye’s defense was delayed, prompting her and the legal team to seek an urgent resolution.
Efforts to Expedite Accreditation
Karua, accompanied by members of Besigye’s legal team, visited the Ugandan Law Council to follow up on the application. She later disclosed that she had held a telephone conversation with Justice Irene Mulyagonja, who assured her that the matter would be reviewed and feedback provided by December 3. However, Karua acknowledged that without the requisite accreditation, she could not address the court.
“I have in turn tasked her and pleaded that they process my application expeditiously because the case is going on today, and I will not be able to address the court without the approval,” Karua stated during a media briefing.
Pan-African Solidarity
Despite the setback, Karua highlighted the solidarity of legal practitioners from across the African continent willing to join Besigye’s defense team. She noted that senior advocates from Kenya and beyond, including Nigeria, had expressed their readiness to step in if necessary.
“There are many other advocates from Kenya who are willing to come, some even more senior than me, and as far as Nigeria,” she said. “Our network of Pan-African opposition leaders’ solidarity, of which Besigye is a member and I am the coordinator, is going to pull lawyers from various parts of Africa to come and join us.”
This extensive network underscores the broader regional and continental implications of Besigye’s case, which has garnered significant attention.
Background on the Case
Besigye, a former Ugandan presidential candidate, and Hajji Obeid Lutale were reportedly abducted in Nairobi on November 16, shortly before they were set to attend the launch of Karua’s book. The two opposition figures were later arrested and charged with unlawful firearm possession, a charge they deny. Their trial has sparked widespread debate about political freedom and justice in Uganda.
Karua’s decision to lead the defense team reflects her ongoing commitment to supporting pro-democracy leaders in Africa. She has been vocal about the need for justice and fairness in legal proceedings, especially for those championing opposition causes.
Next Steps
As Karua awaits her practicing certificate, she remains optimistic about her ability to join the defense effort soon. If granted the certificate on December 3 as anticipated, she is expected to lead a team of 50 lawyers in defending Besigye and Lutale.
The delay has not deterred her resolve, as she continues to liaise with legal authorities to ensure compliance with Ugandan legal requirements. Meanwhile, the case continues to attract significant public interest, with many viewing it as a litmus test for the independence of Uganda’s judiciary.
Karua’s involvement, coupled with the broader network of African advocates, underscores the importance of cross-border solidarity in advocating for justice and the rule of law. As proceedings resume, all eyes remain on the Ugandan courts and the outcome of the ongoing legal battle.
