KAMPALA, Feb 1 (Reuters) – Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni declared on Saturday that his government will continue prosecuting civilians in military tribunals, despite the Supreme Court ruling the practice unconstitutional.
Supreme Court Bans Military Prosecutions for Civilians
In a majority decision on Friday, Uganda’s Supreme Court ruled that prosecuting civilians in military courts is unconstitutional. The court ordered all ongoing cases to be transferred to civil courts, marking a significant legal victory for opposition figures and human rights advocates.
One of the key beneficiaries of this ruling is prominent opposition figure Kizza Besigye, who is currently facing trial in the general court martial. His lawyer welcomed the decision, citing it as a relief for his client and others facing similar charges.
Museveni Defends Military Courts
However, Museveni dismissed the ruling, stating that military prosecutions complement civil courts and have been instrumental in stabilizing regions such as Karamoja, which has been plagued by armed violence.
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“The country is not governed by the judges,” Museveni stated. “The military courts helped us to discipline Karamoja. We cannot and will not abandon this useful instrument for stability.”
Opposition and Human Rights Concerns
Human rights activists and opposition leaders have long accused Museveni’s government of using military courts to silence political opponents by bringing politically motivated charges against them.
Ugandan pop star-turned-opposition leader Bobi Wine has previously faced military prosecution on weapons-related charges. Similarly, Besigye, a longstanding opponent of Museveni, was detained in Kenya last November and extradited to Uganda, where he was charged with weapons and security offenses in the military tribunal.
Following the Supreme Court’s ruling, Besigye’s lawyers stated he would no longer be required to appear before the military court as scheduled on Monday.
Museveni’s Political Future
In power since 1986, Museveni has not officially declared his candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections, but he is widely expected to seek another term in office.
The Supreme Court ruling adds yet another layer of complexity to Uganda’s political landscape, as opposition leaders and civil rights groups continue their push for judicial independence and democratic reforms.
