Uganda’s parliament has passed a controversial law allowing military tribunals to try civilians, despite opposition protests that the move contradicts a Supreme Court ruling from January banning such trials.
The law, which reintroduces a practice that had been in place for the past two decades, has faced heavy criticism from opposition politicians and human rights groups, who accuse the government of using military courts to suppress dissent. The government denies these claims.
On the X platform, parliament confirmed the law’s passage, with military chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba commending lawmakers for their support. “Today, you proved you are fearless patriots! Uganda will remember your courage and commitment,” he posted.
Military spokesperson Chris Magezi defended the law, stating it would address armed criminals, prevent the rise of militant political groups, and reinforce national security.
Opposition members, including Jonathan Odur, condemned the legislation as unconstitutional and unjust. “There’s no legal basis to provide for trial of civilians in military courts,” Odur argued during the debate.
The bill now awaits approval from President Yoweri Museveni before becoming law.
In January, Uganda’s Supreme Court ruled that military tribunals were not competent to fairly try civilians, leading to the transfer of opposition leader Kizza Besigye’s case to a civilian court. Besigye, who has challenged Museveni in multiple elections, was facing military charges for offenses like treason. His supporters have claimed the charges were politically motivated.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine also faced military charges in 2018 for alleged illegal possession of firearms, although the case was later dismissed.
Human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, have criticized Uganda’s military courts for failing to meet international standards of fairness, independence, and impartiality, and for relying on evidence obtained through torture. The military has denied these allegations.