Kampala, Uganda – June 16, 2025 – Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni today signed into law the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Amendment Act, 2025, a controversial piece of legislation that reintroduces the trial of civilians in military courts under specific circumstances. The signing took place despite widespread condemnation from opposition leaders, human rights groups, and a direct appeal from the United Nations.
The new law permits civilians to face military tribunals if accused of unlawful possession of firearms or if they are alleged to have collaborated with military personnel in committing offenses. This move effectively reverses a Supreme Court ruling from January 2025, which had declared such trials unconstitutional, citing concerns about the impartiality and competence of military courts to handle civilian cases.
The Act, which was passed by Parliament on May 20, 2025, amidst protests from opposition lawmakers, has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Opposition figures, including prominent leaders Kizza Besigye and Bobi Wine, have vocally condemned the law, asserting it is a deliberate attempt to suppress political dissent and target opponents ahead of the crucial January 2026 general elections.
Human rights organizations have echoed these concerns, arguing that the law undermines fundamental constitutional protections, including the right to due process and a fair trial. They fear it could lead to military overreach and a significant erosion of civilian judicial authority in Uganda.
Conversely, President Museveni and his supporters maintain that the law is a necessary measure to bolster national security, particularly in addressing crimes involving firearms. They contend that military courts are better equipped to handle cases involving weapons and military collaboration.
The international community has also weighed in, with the United Nations having specifically appealed to Uganda to reject the bill prior to its signing. Concerns now persist regarding the potential impact of the UPDF Amendment Act on human rights and democratic principles in Uganda as the country approaches a critical election cycle.
