The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) has raised concerns over Uganda’s decision to deny entry to Kenyan lawyer and former presidential candidate Hon. Martha Karua, SC, at Entebbe International Airport, describing the action as a threat to access to justice and the independence of the legal profession.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, FIDA-Kenya said Karua was deported and reportedly declared persona non grata by Ugandan authorities while travelling to represent a client in ongoing court proceedings.
The organisation acknowledged Uganda’s sovereignty and its right to regulate entry into its territory but stressed that such powers must be exercised in accordance with the rule of law, international standards, and principles of good faith.
FIDA-Kenya said the reported detention of Karua for more than three hours without access to communication with colleagues or family raised concerns over her rights as an advocate carrying out professional duties.
“Denying entry to Hon. Martha Karua, SC, holding her incommunicado for over three hours, and not allowing her to contact colleagues or family without clear reasons is a violation of her rights as an advocate,” FIDA-Kenya said.
The lawyers’ body warned that the incident could undermine fair trial rights, judicial independence, and access to legal representation within the East African Community (EAC).
FIDA-Kenya called on Uganda to uphold the independence of the legal profession and urged EAC member states, national bar associations, the East Africa Law Society (EALS), and justice sector stakeholders to defend access to justice and democratic principles.
The organisation emphasised that lawyers should be allowed to perform their professional duties without intimidation, discrimination, or unfair restrictions.
“Justice should have no borders,” FIDA-Kenya said, adding that the incident highlights the need to protect civic space and strengthen legal cooperation across the region.
FIDA-Kenya Chairperson Christine Kungu said the organisation remains committed to working with regional partners to promote access to justice and safeguard the rights of women and girls across East Africa.
