Uganda Moves to Expand Military Trials for Civilians

Editorial : Reda El Ghazal

Uganda’s government is pushing forward with legislation to enable military courts to prosecute civilians for alleged security-related offenses, despite a Supreme Court ruling in January that declared such trials unconstitutional. The earlier decision forced authorities to shift several cases, including those involving high-profile critics, to civilian courts. Critics have long accused the state of leveraging military tribunals to target dissent, allegations the government dismisses as unfounded.

The proposed law, drafted by Justice Minister Norbert Mao, outlines “exceptional circumstances” under which civilians could face military jurisdiction. If approved, it would empower officials to revisit cases previously moved to civilian courts. Mao confirmed the bill is awaiting cabinet endorsement before parliamentary review, where the ruling party holds a decisive majority.

Human rights organizations warn the legislation risks undermining judicial fairness, citing concerns over limited transparency and due process in military proceedings. Authorities argue the measure is necessary to address threats to national stability. Legal analysts caution that expanding military court powers could deepen political tensions, fueling debates over civil liberties in Uganda.