Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua denied entry to Uganda ahead of Lukwago bail ruling, ULS confirms

Prominent Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua was denied entry into Uganda upon her arrival at Entebbe International Airport, according to a confirmation from the Uganda Law Society (ULS). Ms. Karua, a respected Senior Counsel, was reportedly ordered to return to Kenya without any stated reason.

Ms. Karua had traveled to Kampala to offer support to the defense team of her colleague, Erias Lukwago, the Kampala Lord Mayor. Mr. Lukwago is currently facing charges of misprision of treason, and his bail application was scheduled for a ruling on the same day Ms. Karua was denied entry.

According to the ULS, Ms. Karua was part of a delegation that included the Law Society of Kenya President, Charles Kanjama. While Mr. Kanjama and other members of the delegation were allowed to enter Uganda, Ms. Karua was singled out by immigration officials and prevented from entering.

The ULS Deputy President, Antony Asiimwe, who was present at the airport, expressed surprise at the turn of events. He stated that immigration authorities provided no justification for barring Ms. Karua. The timing of the incident, just before a significant court ruling for Mr. Lukwago, has drawn attention.

As of now, neither the Ministry of Internal Affairs nor immigration authorities have issued an official statement explaining the denial of entry for the distinguished Kenyan lawyer. Ms. Karua also serves as lead counsel for Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajj Obeid Lutale in a separate high-profile treason case.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uls-says-kenyan-lawyer-martha-karua-denied-entry-to-uganda-ahead-of-lukwago-bail-ruling-5504688