Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has signed into law a controversial amendment that allows military courts to try civilians, sparking fresh outrage among opposition leaders and rights groups.
The legislation, known as the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (Amendment) Act, 2025, was passed by parliament last month and assented to by Museveni despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that had declared such trials unconstitutional.
Military Tribunals for Civilians: The Key Provisions
The new law permits civilians accused of using firearms for political violence or subversive activities to be tried by military tribunals. Government officials argue that the law is necessary to prevent armed insurrections and protect Uganda’s constitutional order.
An army spokesperson praised the bill, saying:
“This law will deter the formation of militant political groups that seek to subvert democratic processes.”
The legislation is seen by government supporters as a tool for preserving peace and stability in the country, where Museveni has ruled for nearly four decades.
Opposition and Human Rights Concerns
Uganda’s opposition and rights campaigners strongly oppose the new law, saying it flies in the face of the Supreme Court’s decision earlier this year. The court had ruled that trying civilians in military courts was unconstitutional, leading to the transfer of high-profile cases—such as that of opposition leader Kizza Besigye—from military to civilian courts.
The opposition argues that military trials for civilians have historically been used to persecute and silence political dissent.
Prominent opposition leader Bobi Wine, who is preparing to challenge Museveni in the upcoming 2026 election, is among those criticizing the law. Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, was previously charged in a military court for alleged illegal possession of firearms. Those charges were eventually dropped following domestic and international pressure.
Supreme Court Ruling vs. New Legislation
Earlier this year, Uganda’s Supreme Court ruled against the practice of trying civilians in military courts, deeming it unconstitutional. The court’s decision was hailed by opposition leaders and rights groups as a victory for justice and the rule of law.
However, Museveni’s government responded swiftly by drafting and passing new legislation aimed at reviving the practice under a different legal framework.
Legal experts say the move sets up another potential clash between the executive branch and the judiciary. Opposition parties have signaled that they will challenge the law in court once again, with rights groups expected to support such petitions.
Implications for Uganda’s Political Climate
Critics say the new law is likely to deepen political tensions ahead of the 2026 general elections. Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is expected to seek another term.
Bobi Wine has emerged as his fiercest rival, with strong support among Uganda’s youthful population. Many observers fear that the military tribunal law could be used to intimidate or suppress opposition figures ahead of the polls.
Nicholas Opiyo, a leading Ugandan human rights lawyer, commented:
“This law is a serious blow to constitutionalism and the separation of powers. It risks returning us to an era where the military is used as a tool for political repression.”
International Reaction
Although there has been no official reaction from key international partners, human rights organizations have already begun raising the alarm.
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have previously documented the abuse of military courts in Uganda, including reports of torture, denial of bail, and restricted legal representation for civilians tried by military tribunals.
With the new law in place, activists fear a resurgence of such abuses.
What Happens Next?
Legal experts expect fresh challenges in Uganda’s courts. Citizens’ petitions could force judicial review of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (Amendment) Act, 2025.
In the meantime, opposition parties are urging citizens to remain vigilant and peaceful as the political landscape grows increasingly tense.
The military courts issue is likely to remain a major talking point as Uganda heads toward its next presidential election, with implications for the country’s democratic credentials and international standing.