The law outlines circumstances under which civilians, accused of crimes such as possessing military equipment or collaborating with military personnel in serious offenses like treason or murder, can be tried in military tribunals.
A previous law permitting such trials was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in January.
Under the new law, qualified advocates at the High Court level will be appointed as judges to the General Court Martial. This development marks an important update to Uganda's legal framework, expanding the role of military courts in the justice system.
"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. If it ain't broke, don't fix it!," army spokesperson Col Chris Magezi wrote on X after the bill was passed by MPs.
While the law has sparked significant debate, it represents a notable shift in how Uganda will handle certain types of criminal cases involving civilians and military matters.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/museveni-enacts-law-allowing-military-tribunals-to-try-civilians
