The Law Society of Kenya has issued a strong statement expressing dissatisfaction with the recent decision by the Law Council of Uganda to deny Martha Karua, a Kenyan senior counsel, the right to represent Dr. Kiiza Besigye and Obeid Lutale before the General Court in Kampala.
In a statement released on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the society described the Ugandan Council’s decision as ‘derogatory, contemptuous, and high-handed.’
The Law Society of Kenya emphasised its disapproval of such actions against a respected legal professional, voicing its “unreserved support” for Karua and highlighting her esteemed position in the legal profession.
The statement underscored Kenya’s leadership role in fostering regional cooperation in legal practice, noting its progressive stance on integrating counsel from neighbouring countries into its legal team.
“The Law Society of Kenya affirmed its commitment to treating non-Kenyan advocates with equity and respect, emphasising that a significant number of these advocates are from Uganda,’ part of the statement read.
The statement also addressed the ongoing issue of reciprocity in legal practice between Kenya and Uganda.
It pointed out that despite Kenya’s goodwill in promoting regional cooperation, Kenyan lawyers continue to face unreasonable constraints when seeking to practice in Uganda.
Additionally, the Law Society criticised the Ugandan Law Council’s apparent “hard stance and lack of compromise” regarding the Mutual Recognition Agreement, suggesting that this position reflects a deliberate refusal to engage in equitable legal practice.
In light of these developments, the Law Society of Kenya is contemplating the suspension of admissions for advocates from the Uganda Law Society until reciprocal arrangements are established.
“While this potential measure is regrettable, the Society believes it is essential to uphold the dignity and equity of Kenyan legal practice,” the statement added in part.
The Law Society of Kenya reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests of its members and ensuring mutual respect and reciprocity in regional legal cooperation.
This development marks a critical moment in the relationship between the legal communities of Kenya and Uganda, raising questions about the future of cross-border legal practice in the region.
