Africa-Press – Uganda. The Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda, Amb. Joash Maangi, has called for a swift resolution to the dispute surrounding the denial of a temporary practicing certificate to Kenyan jurist Martha Wangari Karua by the Uganda Law Council.
He described the issue as a “small tiff” between the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Uganda Law Council, expressing optimism that the matter would be resolved amicably for the mutual benefit of both nations.
Amb. Maangi made these remarks during the Jamhuri Dinner in Kampala, commemorating Kenya’s 61st Independence anniversary.
He highlighted the importance of professional cooperation between Kenya and Uganda, noting that many Ugandan lawyers practice in Kenya just as Kenyan lawyers practice in Uganda.
“There are many Ugandan lawyers practicing in Kisumu, Nairobi, and other cities. It is our expectation as a country that there is free movement and exchange of goods and services, including legal services,” Maangi stated.
The commissioner expressed hope that the dispute would not escalate to retaliatory actions, as hinted by the LSK, and emphasized the need for professional harmony.
“I want to believe that this is a small misunderstanding between the Law Society of Kenya and the Uganda Law Council. But it can be resolved,” he added.
The controversy stems from Martha Karua’s request for a temporary practicing certificate to serve as lead counsel in the legal defense of Dr Kizza Besigye and Hajj Obed Lutale Kamulegeya, who were arrested in Nairobi and are now facing charges at Uganda’s General Court Martial in Makindye.
The Uganda Law Council, led by Justice Irene Mulyagonja, cited several reasons for denying Karua the certificate. However, Karua, in her written response, dismissed these reasons as baseless.
The standoff escalated when the Law Society of Kenya threatened to bar Ugandan lawyers from practicing in Kenya in retaliation.
Karua has since resubmitted her application through the Uganda Law Society in hopes of securing the certificate.
Besigye’s Legal Team Expands
Despite the ongoing legal hurdles, Dr. Besigye’s legal team continues to grow. Angolan lawyer Emiliana Nangacovie has joined the team, further strengthening the defense.
It remains unclear whether Karua will obtain her practicing certificate before Besigye and Lutale return to court in January.
This diplomatic and legal standoff highlights the critical need for regional cooperation and the smooth facilitation of professional services across borders.
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