Uganda passes law to restore military prosecutions of civilians

21/5/2025 6:23

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.



The practice, in use for the last two decades, has long been criticised by opposition politicians and rights campaigners who accuse the government of using court martials to silence opponents, which it denies.



In a post on the X platform, parliament said the legislation had been passed.



The head of the military, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, praised the speaker of parliament and government lawmakers for passing the bill. "Today, you proved you are fearless patriots! Uganda will remember your courage and commitment," he said on X.



Military spokesman Chris Magezi said the law "will deal decisively with armed violent criminals, deter the formation of militant political groups that seek to subvert democratic processes, and ensure national security is bound on a firm foundational base."