Uganda Passes Bill Allowing Military Trials of Civilians
- Uganda's parliament passed an amended law on May 20, 2025, in Kampala allowing military tribunals to try civilians.
- The law followed a January 2025 Supreme Court ruling that banned military trials of civilians as unconstitutional and lacking jurisdiction.
- The military courts have tried civilians for two decades, including political figures like Kizza Besigye and Bobi Wine, prompting criticism from opposition and rights groups.
- Military chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba commended lawmakers on X for their bravery and dedication in passing the bill, while opposition members condemned the legislation as unconstitutional and oppressive.
- President Yoweri Museveni is anticipated to endorse the contentious legislation, which critics warn could lead to increased political oppression ahead of the 2026 elections and compromise judicial impartiality.
22 Articles
22 Articles


Ugandan Lawmakers Pass Bill to Try Civilians Before Military Courts, Defying Concern and Criticism
The contentious legislation was introduced earlier this year after the Supreme Court ruled that civilians can’t be court-martialed, questioning the competence of untrained military officers to dispense justice.


Ugandan lawmakers pass bill to try civilians before military courts, defying concern and criticism
Ugandan lawmakers have passed a government-backed bill to authorize civilian trials in military courts. The move Tuesday defies widespread criticism by opposition figures and others who call it a backward gesture. The contentious legislation was introduced earlier this year after…

Uganda passes law to restore military prosecutions of civilians
KAMPALA - Uganda's parliament on Tuesday passed an amended law that permits military tribunals to try civilians, prompting protests from the opposition who said the move violated a Supreme Court ruling in January that banned such trials. Read more at straitstimes.com.
ANT’s Alaso Condemns UPDF Bill as Blow to Rule of Law
The National Coordinator of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), Alaso Alice Asianut, has strongly criticized the recently passed UPDF Amendment Bill, describing it as a direct attack on constitutionalism, the constitutional order, and the rule of law. On Tuesday, Parliament passed the controversial bill, which reinstates the trial of civilians in military courts. However, Alaso contends that the move undermines a Supreme Court ruling…
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