Uganda passes controversial law restoring military trials for civilians

Uganda’s Parliament has passed a contentious amendment to the country’s laws allowing military courts to try civilians—a move that has sparked a wave of backlash from opposition politicians and human rights groups.

The decision, made on Tuesday, directly contradicts a Supreme Court ruling issued in January 2025 that barred the practice, declaring it unconstitutional and unfair. That landmark judgment stated military tribunals lacked the legal authority and impartiality necessary to conduct civilian criminal trials.

Despite this, government lawmakers pushed the legislation through, with the military’s top brass celebrating the move. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, head of the Ugandan armed forces, praised Parliament’s resolve, calling the vote an act of “fearless patriotism” in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Military spokesperson Chris Magezi defended the law, claiming it would help combat armed criminals and curb militant political movements aiming to destabilize the state.

But opposition MPs strongly condemned the bill during debate. Legislator Jonathan Odur described the law as “unreasonable and unconstitutional,” warning it undermines both the judiciary and fundamental rights.

The amended bill now awaits assent from President Yoweri Museveni, a step expected to formalize its enforcement.

The controversy reignites long-standing concerns about Uganda’s use of military courts to prosecute critics of the regime. For over 20 years, opposition figures have accused the government of using court-martial proceedings as a political tool—a charge the state denies.

Among those affected is Dr. Kizza Besigye, a leading opposition figure and former presidential challenger, who was previously prosecuted in a military court on treason-related charges. His case was shifted to a civilian court following the Supreme Court’s January ruling.

Similarly, pop star-turned-opposition leader Bobi Wine faced military charges in 2018 over alleged illegal gun possession. Those charges were eventually dropped, but critics say the episode reflects a troubling trend of judicial manipulation.

International human rights organizations have also weighed in. Human Rights Watch previously condemned Uganda’s military tribunals, citing routine torture, lack of independence, and failure to uphold fair trial standards.

The military has consistently denied all allegations of abuse or bias.

As the country waits to see whether President Museveni will endorse the legislation, legal observers say the decision will have far-reaching implications for the rule of law and civil liberties in Uganda.