KAMPALA – In a dramatic turn of events, the Law Council has granted a temporary practicing certificate to Hon. Martha Karua, SC, following her reapplication through the Uganda Law Society.
According to Karua and her Ugandan counterpart, Erias Lukwago, they have received a confirmation that she will have her working permit early Tuesday morning.
This decision comes after the Council’s initial denial of her application, citing regulatory requirements.
The granting of the temporary practicing certificate is a significant development in the case of Dr. Kizza Besigye and his aide, Hajji Obeid Lutale, who are facing trial at the general court martial. Dr. Besigye, a vocal critic of the government, was arrested on December 10, 2024, along with his aide, on charges of possession of firearm and ammunition.
FINALLY: The Law Council has granted a temporary Practicing Certificate to Hon. @MarthaKarua, following her reapplication through the Uganda Law Society, as directed by our #RadicalNewBar President, @IsaacSsemakadde. pic.twitter.com/m3qutlmD1b
— Uganda Law Society (@ug_lawsociety) January 6, 2025
The arrest sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups and opposition politicians, who accused the government of using the judiciary to silence its critics. As Dr. Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale prepared to face trial, their legal team, led by renowned Kenyan advocate Martha Karua, hit a snag when the Law Council denied her application for a temporary practicing certificate.
The Council cited regulatory requirements as the reason for the denial, sparking an outcry from the legal community and human rights groups. However, in a surprise move, the Law Council called for a special meeting on January 6, 2025, to reconsider Karua’s application. This development was welcomed by the Uganda Law Society, which has been vocal in its criticism of the Council’s initial decision.
“The Law Council’s decision to reconsider Martha Karua’s application is a step in the right direction,” said Isaac K. Ssemakadde, President of the Uganda Law Society. “We urge the Council to approach this matter with an open mind and to prioritize the interests of justice. Dr. Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale deserve a fair trial, and Martha Karua’s expertise would be a significant asset to their defense team.”
With the granting of the temporary practicing certificate, Karua will now be able to lead the defense team for Dr. Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale at the general court martial. This development is seen as a major boost to the defense team and a significant step towards ensuring that Dr. Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale receive a fair trial.
The case of Dr. Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale has been widely followed in Uganda, with many seeing it as a test of the country’s judicial system. The granting of the temporary practicing certificate to Martha Karua is seen as a positive development in the case, and many are hopeful that it will lead to a fair and just outcome.
“This is a great victory for justice and the rule of law,” said Dr. Besigye’s lawyer. “We are grateful to the Law Council for reconsidering Martha Karua’s application and granting her a temporary practicing certificate. We are confident that with her expertise, we will be able to secure a fair and just outcome for our clients.”
The trial of Dr. Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale is set to continue on January 7, 2025, at the general court martial. The case is expected to attract widespread attention, with many Ugandans eagerly following the developments.
