Ugandan lawmakers passed a bill allowing military courts to try civilians, sparking criticism from opposition and rights groups. The legislation follows a Supreme Court ruling against such trials, raising concerns over democracy as the nation approaches elections.
On Tuesday, Ugandan lawmakers passed a controversial bill that permits the military to try civilians in military courts. This legislation came despite significant criticism from opposition politicians and human rights advocates, who view the move as severely undermining democratic principles. Skeptics argue that the bill is reminiscent of previous executive overreach, especially with elections looming in 2026.
The impetus for this bill arose after a Supreme Court decision declared that civilians could not be subjected to military court trials. The court raised concerns about untrained military officers’ ability to fairly administer justice. Under the new law, civilians may be court-martialed if they are alleged to have committed offenses related to military law. Additionally, the bill stipulates that presiding officers in these cases must be legally trained.
Critically, opposition leaders assert that this legislative effort is emblematic of the authoritarian tendencies of President Yoweri Museveni, who has wielded power in Uganda since 1986. The push for military trials is believed to target dissenters, especially those opposed to Museveni’s regime. Many lawmakers, in protest of the bill’s passage, walked out of the parliamentary chamber, citing procedural improprieties.
The Uganda-based human rights organization Chapter Four issued a statement condemning the bill, claiming that it seeks to unconstitutionally extend judicial authority over civilians, rights traditionally held by superior courts. Observers are concerned about the implications of this legislation, particularly with upcoming elections and Museveni’s anticipated candidacy.
President Museveni has hinted at his dissatisfaction with the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling, stating unequivocally that “the country is not governed by the judges.” He is expected to endorse the newly passed bill soon. The timing is critical, given the growing unease within Uganda regarding the political landscape as the 2026 elections approach.
As he enters the political fray again, many citizens are left wondering about the future. At 80, Museveni appears to have no obvious successor from the ruling National Resistance Movement party, raising questions about a possible transition of power. Some speculate that he might groom his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for a future leadership role, which could lead to a peaceful, albeit contentious, shift in power dynamics.
Meanwhile, long-standing opposition figures, like Kizza Besigye, remain embroiled in legal battles. Besigye, who has been imprisoned since late last year on what many view as politically motivated charges of treason, is emblematic of the pressures faced by those opposing Museveni’s regime. This climate has left many Ugandans questioning whether the nation will ever see a peaceful transfer of power, a feat never achieved since it gained independence from British rule in 1962.
The Ugandan Parliament’s passage of a bill allowing military courts to try civilians marks a significant and controversial legal shift in the country. Critics argue this move is politically motivated and threatens democratic principles, particularly as Uganda approaches the 2026 elections. With President Museveni expected to sign the bill and potentially run for yet another term, the political climate continues to raise concerns about the future of governance and succession in Uganda.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
