The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has voiced strong criticism over the recent Supreme Court ruling that halts all civilian trials in military courts, calling the decision “unfortunate and unacceptable.” His remarks came during the Tarehe Sita celebrations on Thursday, where he emphasized the crucial role of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in upholding discipline, democracy, and socio-economic progress in Uganda.
“We were shocked by the Supreme Court’s ruling last week, which effectively halts all trials conducted by military courts,” Gen. Muhoozi stated. “The UPDF remains the foundation upon which our country’s democracy and socio-economic transformation are built,” he added, underscoring the significance of the armed forces in the nation’s development.
He further highlighted the historical importance of the UPDF, pointing out that its achievements predate the legal frameworks currently being debated. According to Gen. Muhoozi, the military’s discipline and organizational structure are essential to ensuring the nation’s security and progress, noting that such accomplishments could not have been realized without a strong and disciplined force. “This development is very unfortunate and quite unacceptable,” he asserted.
Gen. Muhoozi emphasized the key role that military courts have played in maintaining order within the armed forces, especially in conflict-prone areas. He suggested that the military’s ability to discipline its personnel and handle national security issues—particularly in volatile regions like Karamoja—has been significantly supported by military courts.
His statements align with President Yoweri Museveni’s earlier dismissal of the Supreme Court’s ruling. President Museveni has expressed support for constitutional amendments that would reinstate military court jurisdiction over civilians, particularly those involved in criminal activities such as possessing illegal firearm
The Supreme Court’s ruling has been hailed as a significant victory by human rights organizations, which argue that trying civilians in military courts infringes upon their constitutional right to a fair trial. The court’s decision mandates the immediate transfer of all ongoing civilian cases to civil courts, a move that has been welcomed by opposition groups like the National Unity Platform (NUP).
However, government and military officials contend that this decision could undermine national security. They argue that the ruling disrupts the longstanding judicial processes of the armed forces and could complicate military operations, especially in areas like Karamoja, where military courts have been instrumental in prosecuting armed criminal
Gen. Muhoozi’s remarks reflect growing pressure from military and government officials to challenge the Supreme Court’s ruling. President Museveni has instructed the Attorney General to propose constitutional amendments that would restore the UPDF’s authority over specific civilian cases, signaling the government’s intent to take legislative action in response to the court’s decision.
