Archive · 16 Jun 2025
Uganda President Signs Law Allowing Military Trials for Civilians
In Uganda, the president has made a new law allowing the military to put civilians on trial, which the Supreme Court had previously said was against the law.
This change means that the military can try people in court again.
The opposition doesn't like this because they think it goes against what the highest court said.
The government says the new law will help prevent groups from causing trouble.
One prominent opposition figure, Bobi Wine, was once tried in a military court.
The country's courts could be involved again if citizens challenge the law.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni signed a law allowing military tribunals to try civilians.
The Supreme Court previously banned this practice, deeming it unconstitutional.
Opposition leaders say the law violates the Supreme Court ruling.
The army spokesperson supports the law, stating it will deter militant groups.
The law's reintroduction follows the passage of new legislation in parliament last month.
- Who
- President Yoweri Museveni and the Ugandan Parliament.
- What
- Uganda's President signed a law allowing military trials for civilians.
- When
- The law was signed recently, after it passed through parliament last month.
- Where
- Uganda
- Why
- The law's stated aim is to deter militant political groups, but opponents say it violates a Supreme Court ruling.
Opposition View
Government View
Legality of Military Trials
Opposition View
The new law violates the Supreme Court's earlier ruling that declared military trials of civilians unconstitutional.
Government View
The government believes the law is necessary to deter militant groups and maintain order.
Political Motivation
Opposition View
They allege the government uses military courts to persecute political opponents.
Government View
The government denies these claims, asserting trials are only for civilians involved in political violence.
- President
- Yoweri Museveni
- Law Signed
- Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (Amendment) Act, 2025
- Supreme Court Ruling
- Banned military trials of civilians
- Opposition Figure
- Bobi Wine
- Army Stance
- Supports the law