Former Kenyan Justice Minister and senior lawyer Martha Karua has accused Ugandan authorities of unlawfully preventing her from entering the country. The incident happened when she arrived at Entebbe International Airport to join a legal team representing opposition figures facing treason-related charges.
Karua had traveled to Uganda to support her colleague, lawyer Erias Lukwago, in the defense of opposition leader Kizza Besigye. Besigye is currently facing treason charges in a case that has attracted significant public and political attention.
According to reports, immigration officials stopped Karua upon arrival and instructed her to return to Kenya. Authorities did not provide a public explanation for the decision.
Karua Calls the Decision Politically Motivated
After returning to Nairobi, Karua criticized the move and described it as unlawful and politically motivated. She argued that citizens of East African Community member states should be able to move freely within the region.
Karua also stated that officials informed her she was considered persona non grata in Uganda. However, no official statement has been released by Ugandan authorities to confirm or explain that designation.
Her exclusion has raised questions about regional cooperation and the treatment of legal professionals involved in politically sensitive cases.
Different Treatment for Members of the Same Legal Team
The situation drew additional attention because Kenya Law Society President Charles Kanjama, who traveled with Karua, was allowed to enter Uganda without any restrictions.
Kanjama expressed concern over the differing treatment of members of the same legal team. He noted that both lawyers traveled for the same case and intended to perform similar professional duties.
He called on Ugandan authorities to provide a clear explanation for the decision. According to Kanjama, it is difficult to understand why one lawyer was admitted while another was denied entry under the same circumstances.
Concerns Grow Over Political Freedoms in East Africa
The incident has fueled debate about political freedoms, legal independence, and the rights of opposition figures across East Africa. Critics argue that restricting access to legal representation can undermine confidence in judicial processes.
Meanwhile, Ugandan immigration authorities have not publicly commented on the matter. The lack of an official explanation continues to generate discussion among legal experts and civil society groups.
As attention remains focused on the ongoing treason cases, many observers are calling for greater transparency regarding the decision to block Martha Karua from entering Uganda.
