More than 300 Ugandan lawyers practicing in Kenya face an uncertain future following the Kenya Law Society’s threat to revoke their licenses. This development arises from the Uganda Law Council’s controversial decision to deny Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua a certificate to practice law in Uganda, raising concerns about a potential diplomatic and professional standoff.
The Kenya Law Society’s strong reaction has caused widespread unease among Ugandan legal professionals. Many fear that this decision undermines East African cooperation and puts their careers in jeopardy. Ugandan lawyers contribute significantly to Kenya’s legal landscape, handling cases in corporate, criminal, and civil law.
Their possible removal would not only disrupt the legal profession in Kenya but also threaten the livelihoods of these professionals and their families.
Prominent Ugandan lawyers, such as Peter Walubiri and George Musisi, have condemned the Uganda Law Council for its decision. They accuse the council of succumbing to government influence in blocking Martha Karua from representing Dr. Kizza Besigye in a politically sensitive case.
“This move lacks legal merit and sets a dangerous precedent that risks straining Uganda-Kenya relations,” Walubiri stated.
Precedents of Foreign Lawyers Practicing in Uganda
The Uganda Law Council defended its stance, claiming no foreign lawyer has ever been allowed to represent clients in political or criminal cases in Uganda. However, critics pointed out instances where this was not the case.
For example:
In 2010, American lawyer Jim Alan Gash represented a client in the Tumusiime Henry vs Uganda case.
In 2001, President Museveni was represented by a Kenyan lawyer during an election petition.
These examples have led legal experts to question the consistency and fairness of the council’s decision.
Appeal for Unity among Legal Professionals
Mukasa Mbidde, a senior Ugandan lawyer, has appealed to the Kenya Law Society to reconsider its position. He emphasized that Ugandan lawyers in Kenya were not involved in the Uganda Law Council’s decision.
“We must maintain unity among legal professionals in the region and resist any interference that undermines our collaboration,” Mbidde urged.
This escalating issue threatens professional cooperation within the East African Community. Legal experts warn that such actions could harm regional integration efforts, impacting collaboration across various professions.
The fate of over 300 Ugandan lawyers now hangs in the balance, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to preserve the spirit of East African unity and cooperation.
As tensions rise between Uganda and Kenya over this matter, stakeholders must prioritize open dialogue and fairness. Resolving this issue is crucial to safeguarding professional ties, promoting regional integration, and ensuring the livelihoods of affected Ugandan
