East Africa Law Society Issues Demands to Museveni After Karua’s Detention

The East Africa Law Society (EALS) has expressed concern over Uganda’s decision to deny entry to Kenyan lawyer and politician Martha Karua.

In a statement issued on June 22, 2026, EALS said the incident raises serious concerns about access to justice, the independence of lawyers, and respect for the rule of law within the East African Community.

According to EALS, Karua traveled to Uganda to take part in legal proceedings involving a Ugandan lawyer and politician, who is facing prosecution following his recent arrest and detention.

The society said immigration officials at Entebbe International Airport initially processed Karua’s passport before informing her that she would not be allowed to enter the country and had to return to Kenya.

EALS noted that while Karua was denied entry, two other members of its delegation were allowed into Uganda.

The society said this development raises questions about the reasons behind the decision and called for a clear explanation from Ugandan authorities.

Martha Karua Denial Raises Concerns Over Legal Representation

EALS said the denial prevented Karua from carrying out her professional duties in a matter of significant public interest.

“The reported denial of entry prevented Hon. Karua from undertaking her professional responsibilities in proceedings of significant public interest and importance,” the statement said.

The society added that every person has the right to legal representation and should be able to choose their lawyer without unnecessary restrictions.

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EALS Cites Regional and International Obligations

EALS reminded Uganda that, as a member of the East African Community, it is committed to principles such as democracy, good governance, human rights, and the rule of law.

The society also pointed to international legal instruments, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which protect the right to a fair hearing.

“The reported denial of entry to counsel intending to participate in ongoing judicial proceedings is therefore not merely an immigration matter,” EALS said.

It added, “It has broader implications for access to justice, the effective exercise of fair trial rights, confidence in judicial processes, and the independence of the legal profession within the East African Community.”

Also Read: Martha Karua Detained in Uganda

EALS Calls for Immediate Clarification

The society urged the Ugandan government to explain the legal and factual basis for denying Karua entry.

EALS also called on authorities to ensure that legal practitioners can perform their duties without interference and that litigants can access legal representation of their choice.

The society further urged Uganda to uphold its obligations under regional and international legal frameworks and to ensure that all actions by state authorities remain consistent with constitutional guarantees and the rule of law.

Solidarity With Legal Professionals

EALS said it stands in solidarity with Martha Karua, the Law Society of Kenya, the Uganda Law Society, and legal professionals across East Africa.

The organization pledged to continue monitoring the situation and to pursue appropriate national, regional, continental, and international avenues to protect access to justice and the independence of the legal profession.

“The true measure of constitutional democracy lies not in the exercise of power, but in its restraint,” the statement concluded.

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EALS Statement on Karua’s detention
PHOTO/EALS