Opposition political parties in Uganda have jointly condemned the actions of security agencies for blocking prominent Kenyan lawyer and former Justice Minister Martha Karua from entering the country and subsequently deporting her.
Speaking at a joint press conference held at the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) offices in Kampala, leaders from several opposition parties, including the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), People’s Progressive Party (PPP), and the Democratic Front (DF), expressed concern over what they described as a growing pattern of abuse of the law.
PFF Deputy President Lulume Bayiga described the decision to deny Karua entry as unlawful and politically motivated.
He argued that, as a citizen of the East African Community (EAC), Karua is entitled to free movement across member states, including Uganda, without unjustified restrictions.
Bayiga called for the immediate withdrawal of the persona non grata declaration issued against Karua, saying it unjustly prevents her from performing her professional duties as a lawyer.
UPC President Jimmy Akena also criticized the move, warning that continued acts of impunity could undermine Uganda’s regional standing and potentially create long-term diplomatic and legal consequences.
The opposition leaders pledged to continue pushing for accountability and adherence to regional protocols on the free movement of persons within the East African Community.
By Charles Katabalwa
23rd June 2026
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