Uganda’s parliament has passed a controversial amendment permitting military tribunals to try civilians, sparking outrage from opposition lawmakers and rights groups who say the move blatantly defies a Supreme Court ruling issued just months ago.
The bill, approved on Tuesday, reignites a long-running debate over the use of military courts to prosecute civilians—an issue that has plagued Uganda’s justice system for over two decades.
In January, the Supreme Court declared the practice unconstitutional, asserting that military courts lack the independence and fairness required to try civilians.
Despite that ruling, lawmakers loyal to President Yoweri Museveni pushed through the legislation, prompting accusations that the state is seeking new legal cover to silence dissent.
Opposition MP Jonathan Odur called the law “shallow, unreasonable, and unconstitutional,” warning it undermines the judiciary and the rule of law.
“There’s no legal basis to provide for trial of civilians in military court,” he told parliament.
The bill now awaits presidential assent from Museveni, who has historically supported the military’s expansive role in domestic security.
Military officials defended the amendment. Spokesman Chris Magezi claimed the law will combat armed criminals and prevent the rise of militant political groups seeking to “subvert democratic processes.”
However, critics view the legislation as a tool to repress opposition figures. High-profile leaders like Kizza Besigye and Bobi Wine have previously faced military trials on controversial charges, prompting international condemnation.
Human Rights Watch has slammed Uganda’s military courts for failing to meet fair trial standards and relying on evidence extracted through torture—allegations the military denies.
The amendment’s passage raises fears of deepening authoritarianism in Uganda, as legal experts warn it could erode civilian judicial authority and entrench impunity within the security apparatus.
