Uganda Leader Signs Law Reintroducing Military Trials Civilians 2025 06 16
ReutersJUN 20
Uganda's President Signs Law Allowing Military Trials for Civilians
Above: Yoweri Museveni during the opening session of the Third South Summit of the Group of 77 and China in Kampala on Jan. 21, 2024. Image copyright: Luis Tato/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
This law is crucial for national security and addressing armed criminals who pose a threat to Uganda's stability. Military courts are necessary because civilian courts are too busy to handle gun-wielding criminals quickly, and the amendment addresses previous concerns by requiring legal qualifications for tribunal judges.
Government-critical narrative
The law directly contravenes the Supreme Court's constitutional ruling and serves as another means of silencing political dissent. Military courts often lack impartiality and competence, resulting in civilians facing harsher penalties and prolonged detention without proper judicial oversight.