President Yoweri Museveni’s government has frequently defended military trials, citing national security concerns.
The Ugandan Parliament has passed a controversial bill that approves military courts for civilians, drawing criticism from opposition figures and rights groups, and accusing the government of trying to silence its enemy.
The practice has been in use in Uganda for a long time, but was attacked by the country’s top coat in January. The Supreme Court held that the military courts lacked legal ability to test civilians and were unable to meet fair judicial standards.
Despite that ruling, lawmakers will move forward with law on Tuesday, allowing civilians to go to trial in military court.
“Today, you have proven you’re a fearless patriot! Uganda will remember your courage and commitment,” said General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the commander of the military and son of President Yoweri Museveni in the X post.
Earlier this month, Kainergaba said he had a missing opposition activist in his basement and threatened violence against him after saying he was accused of him.
The Museveni government has frequently defended military trials necessary for national security amid concerns about armed opposition and threats to national stability.
Military spokesman Chris Magegzi said the law “will deal with armed violent criminals resolutely, blocking the formation of extremist political groups seeking to destroy the democratic process, and ensuring national security is tied to a solid foundation.”
However, critics say the move is part of a broader pattern of oppression. “There is no legal basis to provide civilian trials in military courts,” Opposition MP Jonathan O’Dour told Congress during discussions on the bill. He described the law as “shallow, irrational and unconstitutional.”
Uganda has used military courts for many years to indict opposition politicians and government critics.
In 2018, target leader Bobi Wine, who turned pop star, was charged in military court with illegal possession of a firearm. The fee was later removed.
Kiza Besiji, a veteran opposition figure who challenged Museveni in multiple elections, was arrested in Kenya last year and returned to Uganda to face a military court.
Following the Supreme Court’s January ruling, his trial was moved to a civil court. His party, the Front of the People for Freedom (PFF), accused the accusation of politically motivating.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has previously criticised Uganda’s military courts for failing to meet international standards of judicial independence and equity.
Earlier this year, Olim Neeko, a senior African researcher at HRW, said:
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