NAIROBI, KENYA– A few days after the Uganda Law council has denied Martha Karua a senior Kenyan Legal practitioner a temporary permit to represent Rtd. Col Kiiza Besigye in Makindye General Court Martial, Kenya Law Society has broken the silence on the matter.
“To further protect the integrity of legal practice in Kenya, the Law Society of Kenya is actively considering. After necessary consultations the suspension of admission of advocates from the Uganda Law Society until such a time as reciprocal arrangements are appreciated and implemented. This measure, though regrettable, is necessary to uphold the dignity and equity of Kenyan legal practice.” Reads part of the statement issued by Faith Odhiambo, the Kenya Law Society President.
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She also pointed out that the decision of Uganda Law council not only offend the mutual understanding between the bar of both countries, but the manner in which it was Communicated as well as the reasons given, were so ludicrous and distasteful.
“However, this goodwill and good faith extended to the region has met no reciprocity or Acknowledgement whatsoever. As things stand. Kenyan lawyers continue to face unreasonable constraints in their efforts to practice in neighboring countries.”
On behalf of the Kenyan Law Society, Odhiambo promised to remain remain resolute in their commitment to upholding the interests of members and ensuring that the principles of mutual respect and reciprocity underpin regional legal cooperation.
Martha Karua is currently in Uganda working with a team of Besigye’s defence lawyers in preparing for the case before Makindye General Court Martial.
Uganda Law Society Response
Isaac Ssemakadde Kimazze the President of Uganda Law Society, prior to the statement from Kenya, in his statement dated 10th December 2024, Kimazze condemned the manner in which the Ugandan Law council handled Martha Karua’s matter and advised her to re apply through him.
“ I am committed to supporting her professional right to practice law in Uganda without discrimination as to origin or political opinion. The existence of the Law Council in its current form undermines the independence of the legal profession.” Said Ssemakadde.
He also pointed out that, as a member of the Law Council in terms of Section 2(1)(d) of the Uganda Advocates Act,Cap. 295, he was not invited to the special sitting of 6th December 2024 that purportedly considered the Section 18 application of Advocate Martha Karua.
