Law Council Denies Karua Application to Practice in Uganda Amid Political Controversy
The decision, influenced by concerns over professional conduct, political implications, and non-compliance with local legal standards, has drawn significant attention.
The Uganda Law Council has rejected an application from a foreign lawyer seeking temporary admission to practice in the country.
The decision, influenced by concerns over professional conduct, political implications, and non-compliance with local legal standards, has drawn significant attention.
The applicant, hailing from a common law jurisdiction, sought to represent Dr. Kizza Besigye in a high-profile case before Uganda's General Court Martial.
The case has heightened political tensions in both Uganda and Kenya, given Dr Besigye's prominence as an opposition leader facing serious charges.
The Law Council cited Uganda's non-signatory status to the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) within the East African Community (EAC) as a critical factor.
Without this agreement, cross-border legal practice remains at the Council's discretion rather than a right.
Historically, such permissions in Uganda have only been granted for civil cases, not criminal matters.
The Council raised concerns about potential political motivations behind the applicant’s involvement, given the politically charged nature of the case.
Additionally, the applicant’s actions upon arrival in Uganda further complicated the situation.
On December 2, the foreign lawyer appeared at the General Court Martial alongside Ugandan attorney Erias Lukwago, introduced as lead counsel for Dr Besigye despite lacking proper certification.
The following day, the applicant and Mr Lukwago, joined by journalists, attempted an unscheduled meeting with the Chief Justice to expedite a ruling related to the Besigye case.
The encounter, marked by a tense confrontation with security personnel, was criticized by the Law Council as unprofessional and indicative of a misunderstanding of Uganda’s legal practices.
The Council concluded that these actions breached professional conduct and cast doubt on the applicant's motives for seeking practice rights.
It underscored the importance of upholding professional standards and respecting the legal framework of foreign jurisdictions.
The rejection of the application reflects the Council's commitment to maintaining the integrity of Uganda's legal system and ensuring that political factors do not undermine its professional processes.
