Former Kenyan Justice Minister Martha Karua was barred from entering Uganda at Entebbe airport on 22 June 2026, according to the Uganda Law Society. She was scheduled to join a defence team that also includes Ugandan lawyer Erias Lukwago—who is representing the detained opposition leader Kizza Besigye during his treason trial.
Karua’s arrival coincided with Lukwago’s own recent arrest for a treason‑related offence. She was ordered to return to Nairobi, with no stated reason provided by Ugandan authorities. Karua argued the denial was unlawful and “politically motivated,” citing her status as an East African Community citizen who should freely cross borders within member states.
She was told she was an “persona non grata” in Uganda, a claim that has yet to be substantiated. Meanwhile, Kenya Law Society President Charles Kanjama—who travelled alongside Karua—was permitted entry and has requested an explanation, noting the discrepancy.
The incident underscores the fragile state of cross‑border legal cooperation in the East African region and raises serious concerns about political influence over judicial processes. Journalists and human rights organisations have called for clarity on the circumstances that led to Karua’s denial of entry.
Source: BBC News Africa
