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Museveni Rejects Supreme Court Ruling, Pushes for Military Trials for Civilians

President Yoweri Museveni has firmly rejected the Supreme Court’s ruling that bans the trial of civilians in military courts, calling it a threat to national security. He insists that military courts remain necessary to combat crime and protect Ugandans from armed criminals.

Following the ruling, Museveni expressed disappointment, particularly in cases involving civilians caught with illegal firearms. “I was sorry to hear of the wrong decision by the Supreme Court regarding the trial of civilians in military courts,” he said. “This is an instrument we cannot and will not abandon. It has proven effective in dealing with armed criminals and ensuring the safety of our people.”

Military Courts as a Security Tool

Museveni emphasized that military courts were established not just for the armed forces but to protect civilians from individuals who illegally possess weapons. “Why should civilians who arm themselves with firearms not face military trials?” he asked.

He also highlighted their role in maintaining order, particularly in conflict-prone areas like Karamoja. “Military courts helped pacify Karamoja and saved thousands of young warriors who, if left unchecked, might have died in violent clashes with the army,” he noted.

Pushing for Constitutional Amendments

Museveni made it clear that he will not implement the Supreme Court’s decision. Instead, he is advocating for constitutional amendments to restore the military courts’ jurisdiction over civilians involved in security-related crimes.

“The country is not governed by the judges,” he asserted. “It is governed by the people. We will use referenda or parliamentary amendments to make sure our legal framework serves the needs of our society.”

Museveni’s History of Clashing with the Judiciary

Museveni’s defiance of judicial rulings is not new. He has previously dismissed the Constitution as a “mere piece of paper” and has publicly criticized the judiciary, arguing that legal decisions should align with national security interests.

As legal experts and human rights groups scrutinize the government’s next steps, Museveni remains unwavering. He has vowed to ensure that criminals, especially those using firearms, continue to face trial in military courts, regardless of the Supreme Court’s ruling.

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