Besigye’s case: Martha Karua seeks new special license after restrictions
People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader and lawyer Martha Karua has confirmed that she is in the process of reapplying for another special license after being unable to fully participate in the court proceedings of Ugandan veteran opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye.
Taking to her X official account on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, Karua, who was present in court to support Besigye revealed that her current special license prevented her from actively contributing to the legal battle.
Despite her limitations, Karua commended her fellow advocates for their efforts in representing Besigye.
“In court but without a voice due to the restrictive nature of my special license. In the meantime, my colleagues are doing a fantastic Job. In the process of reapplying for another special license,” Karua said.
Karua’s presence in court underscores the solidarity among opposition figures and human rights defenders across East Africa. Her commitment to justice, even in the face of bureaucratic hurdles, continues to reinforce her reputation as a steadfast advocate for democracy and the rule of law.
Karua’s special license
On Monday, January 6, 2025, Karua was handed a temporary practising certificate by the Law Council which gave her the go-ahead to represent Uganda’s opposition leader in an ongoing case in Uganda’s Court Martial.
Karua had applied to represent Besigye and Kamulegeya, who are facing serious charges related to the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. However, it was rejected on December 6, 2024, by the Uganda Council, which stated that it lacked proper documentation and was politically motivated.
Museveni on Besigye’s case
On Tuesday, February 18, 2025, President Yoweri Museveni, absolved himself from the matter indicating that he had no hand in the continued detention of Besigye.
He however argued that Besigye must be presented before the court to answer his charges.
On the issue of Besigye’s deteriorating health, Museveni insisted that he had been accorded medical attention. He accused Besigye of going on a hunger strike to blackmail the government and further attract sympathy.
“We are not for vengeance but the danger of the killers must be removed. Therefore, the correct answer in the matter of Besigye is a quick trial,” Museveni remarked.
In court but without a voice due to the restrictive nature of my special license. In the meantime my colleagues are doing a fantastic Job #FreeKiizaBesigye #FreeObeidLutale #FreeEronKiiza pic.twitter.com/3rfqE6UWbb
— Martha Karua SC (@MarthaKarua) February 19, 2025
