The Uganda Law Council has rejected a foreign lawyer’s application for temporary admission to practice law in Uganda. This decision has sparked widespread discussion, as it touches on issues of professional conduct, legal compliance, and political implications.
The lawyer, from a common law jurisdiction, had sought to represent Dr. Kizza Besigye in a high-profile case before Uganda’s General Court Martial. Dr. Besigye, a well-known opposition leader, is facing serious charges, and the case has stirred political tensions in both Uganda and Kenya.
The Law Council highlighted that Uganda is not a signatory to the East African Community (EAC) Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA), which facilitates cross-border legal practice. Without this agreement, the decision to grant temporary practice rights remains at the discretion of the Council. Historically, such permissions have only been granted for civil cases, not criminal matters like Dr. Besigye’s.
The Council expressed concerns about the political nature of the lawyer’s involvement. It noted that the foreign lawyer’s actions upon arriving in Uganda raised further questions about their intentions. On December 2, the lawyer appeared at the General Court Martial alongside Ugandan attorney Erias Lukwago, presenting themselves as lead counsel for Dr. Besigye despite not having the required certification.
The next day, the foreign lawyer and Mr. Lukwago, accompanied by journalists, attempted an unplanned meeting with the Chief Justice to expedite a ruling related to the case. The encounter, marked by a confrontation with security personnel, was criticized as unprofessional and reflective of a lack of understanding of Uganda’s legal procedures.
The Law Council concluded that these actions breached professional conduct and cast doubt on the foreign lawyer’s motives for seeking admission. The rejection emphasizes the Council’s commitment to upholding the integrity of Uganda’s legal system. It also sends a clear message that political influences should not interfere with professional legal processes.
By maintaining strict adherence to local legal standards, the Law Council seeks to protect the professionalism and credibility of Uganda’s judiciary.
