People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has urged member states of the East African Community (EAC) to show solidarity with opposition leaders facing political persecution across the region.
In a post on her X account, Karua raised alarm over the escalating repression of dissenting voices in East Africa, warning that silencing opposition figures threatens not only individual countries’ political landscapes but also regional stability and the democratic ideals shared by EAC members.
“The imprisonment of opposition leaders across East Africa demands our attention and action,” she stated. “Persistent arrests and harassment of political figures across the region cannot go unnoticed.”
Karua’s remarks came after she appeared in Uganda’s Nakawa Court to represent detained opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused, Hajji Lutale.
She condemned what she described as a worrying pattern of authoritarianism, highlighting similar incidents in neighboring Tanzania, where she had recently attended the trial of opposition figure Tundu Lissu.
“These events point to a dangerous trend,” she said. “There is an urgent need for a united regional response to safeguard democracy and human rights.”
Karua also shed light on the personal toll of political repression, noting that Dr. Besigye marked his 69th birthday in detention. She revealed that Besigye had been held for five months following what she called an illegal abduction by Ugandan military forces on Kenyan soil.
However, she noted a key development in the legal fight: “Our legal victory at Uganda’s Supreme Court moved him from military custody to civilian court. #BorderlessJustice #WakeUpEastAfrica,” Karua said, calling the decision a critical step toward justice.
Citing the East African Community Treaty, Karua reminded member states of their shared obligation to uphold democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. “These aren’t optional—they’re foundational!” she emphasized.
“As opposition leaders in neighbouring countries are imprisoned, our children are being killed at home,” Karua added, drawing a powerful connection between political repression and broader societal injustices.
Her call-to-action challenges EAC nations not only to condemn repression but to actively support each other in defending democratic space across the region.
