Martha Karua sues Gen Muhoozi over Uganda deportation

Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua files suit against Uganda’s army chief Gen Muhoozi, alleging unlawful detention and deportation during her visit to represent Dr. Kizza Besigye.

Kenyan lawyer and former Justice Minister Martha Karua has filed a lawsuit against Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba. She alleges that he ordered her short detention and deportation from Uganda on June 22, 2026, despite holding valid documents to represent opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye in court.

Karua arrived at Entebbe International Airport with fellow lawyers. After her passport was stamped, she was separated from her colleagues and taken to immigration offices. Her two phones were confiscated, raising concerns about client confidentiality. Later, she was informed she could not enter Uganda due to unspecified “security reasons.”

Ugandan authorities instructed Kenya Airways to remove Karua from Ugandan territory, classifying her as “prohibited.” Karua argues she was deported without explanation or a chance to defend herself, violating her rights as a member of the East African Community and undermining Besigye’s right to legal representation.

She cites Uganda’s Constitution, specifically Article 208, which places the military under civilian authority, arguing that Gen Muhoozi had no legal mandate to interfere in immigration decisions.

Karua’s petition references posts allegedly made on X (Twitter) by Gen Muhoozi, where he claimed responsibility for expelling her: “It was me personally who expelled her. She will never be allowed in our country again.” Karua argues this proves direct military interference in civilian matters.

Ugandan prosecutors allege that Besigye, Karua, and other opposition figures such as Erias Lukwago attended meetings abroad to plan the overthrow of Uganda’s government. Karua denies these claims, framing her deportation as political persecution and a violation of fundamental freedoms.