Uganda’s recent enactment of a controversial law empowering military courts to try civilians marks a significant legal shift in the country. President Yoweri Museveni gave his assent to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Amendment Bill 2025, which was previously approved by parliament. This legislative change enables the military judiciary to prosecute civilians under specific circumstances, such as when they are accompanying military units, although it includes broader provisions for prosecuting civilians found with firearms or ammunition.
This development follows Uganda’s Supreme Court ruling earlier this year that declared military trials of civilians to be unconstitutional. The Court cited the breach of the constitutional “right to a fair hearing” and the necessity for trials to be conducted before independent and impartial courts. Museveni, however, expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling, and the amendment law was crafted to navigate these legal challenges by promising coordination between military and civilian courts to ensure compliance with the constitution.
The passage of the UPDF Amendment Bill 2025 has drawn criticism from the international community, including UN officials and human rights organizations concerned with its implications for civil liberties. Domestically, critics like the Uganda Law Society have announced plans to legally contest the amendment, emphasizing their commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Contrastingly, the Ugandan military’s leadership has welcomed the law. Chris Magezi, Chief of Staff for the UPDF, stated via social media that the law strengthens national security and deters potential insurgencies, potentially targeting armed criminals or politically motivated groups.
This legal adjustment has sparked widespread debate among legal professionals and international observers, casting a spotlight on Uganda’s judiciary and its adherence to constitutional principles in a changing political climate. For a more in-depth analysis, you may refer to the full report on JURIST.