President Yoweri Museveni has signed a controversial law bringing back military trials for civilians in Uganda, just months after the Supreme Court had struck down the practice. The move has sparked widespread concern among rights advocates, opposition leaders, and ordinary Ugandans, who fear the law could be used to silence dissent and undermine democracy as the 2026 elections approach.
Kampala, Uganda –
President Yoweri Museveni has signed a new law reinstating military trials for civilians, overturning a Supreme Court ban and igniting a firestorm of criticism from across Uganda’s political and civil society landscape.
The Supreme Court had previously repealed the law, citing concerns over judicial fairness and the misuse of military courts to target government critics and activists.
The government claims the new legislation addresses these issues by mandating legal qualifications for military tribunal leaders and promising greater judicial independence. Officials argue the law is crucial for national security, especially in cases involving armed violence or illegal possession of military equipment.
Civil society groups, human rights defenders, and opposition parties have condemned the law as a tool for political repression.
They warn that it could be used to silence dissent and intimidate activists, especially with the 2026 elections on the horizon. Past opposition figures like Kizza Besigye and Bobi Wine have faced military courts on charges widely seen as politically motivated, fueling fears of renewed crackdowns.
Legal analysts caution that the vague criteria for military trials could erode judicial independence and set a dangerous precedent for Uganda and the wider East African region. The law’s passage has already triggered legal challenges and public protests, with many Ugandans questioning its impact on civil liberties and the rule of law.
What It Means Going Forward
With elections looming, Uganda’s return to military trials for civilians marks a pivotal moment for justice and democracy in the country.
The law’s implementation will be closely watched by citizens, activists, and neighboring nations alike. Its legacy could shape not only Uganda’s political future but also wider regional standards for civilian rights and judicial independence.
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