Martha Karua Sues Uganda Over Deportation, Seeks Return to Defend Besigye

Senior Counsel Martha Karua, a prominent Kenyan lawyer and former Justice Minister, has initiated legal proceedings against the Ugandan government. She is challenging the decision made on June 22, 2026, at Entebbe International Airport where she was denied entry into Uganda and subsequently declared persona non grata.

Karua contends that this deportation has severely hampered her ability to represent Dr. Kizza Besigye, a key figure in Uganda’s opposition, who is currently facing charges related to national security and firearm possession.

The lawsuit, filed jointly with the Uganda Law Society (ULS), names the Attorney General as a respondent. Karua’s legal challenge argues that the immigration authorities’ decision was unlawful and calls for the reversal of her deportation order.

Her planned representation of Dr. Besigye was aimed at assisting him in his treason trial, a case that has drawn significant attention. The denial of entry prevented Karua from attending crucial court proceedings where her legal expertise was sought.

The case is expected to scrutinize the grounds for Karua’s deportation and the application of immigration laws in the context of legal representation for high-profile political figures.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)