Global Lawyers Group Condemns UPDF Over Arrest of Besigye’s Defense Counsel

The Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA) has issued a strong condemnation against the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) following the recent detention of prominent lawyer and opposition figure Erias Lukwago, and the denied entry of Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua.

The international body expressed grave concern over what it describes as escalating state interference in the treason trial of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Hajj Obeid Lutale.

Lukwago, who is a lead defense counsel for the duo, was arrested by the UPDF on June 15, 2026. Shortly after, Karua, who had been authorized to practice in Uganda, was detained at Entebbe International Airport and prevented from entering the country.

The CLA emphasized that these actions constitute a significant violation of international legal standards designed to protect the independence of the legal profession. The association quoted Clause 16 of the United Nations Principles on the Role of Lawyers, which asserts that lawyers must be able to perform their duties without harassment and should have freedom of travel.

“The targeting of defense counsel — through arrest, detention, or charge — in connection with their representation of a client strikes at the heart of the administration of justice,” the CLA stated. The group also backed the Uganda Law Society’s stance, asserting the military has no authority to intimidate or arrest lawyers for carrying out their professional duties.

The CLA’s rebuke also referenced the 2023 Commonwealth Declaration of Goa and International Bar Association Standards, which prohibit sanctions against legal practitioners for legitimately representing clients.

The organization has formally demanded that Ugandan authorities ensure the treason trial proceeds without interference, uphold the independence of the legal profession, take action against individuals impeding lawyers, and comply with international obligations to safeguard the rule of law.