The Ugandan Supreme Court ruled that military trials of civilians are unconstitutional, forbidding such practices and mandating the transition of cases to civilian courts. This ruling highlights ongoing human rights concerns about military courts’ abuses and calls for justice for wrongfully convicted civilians.
On January 31, 2025, Uganda’s Supreme Court ruled that military trials of civilians are unconstitutional, marking a crucial advancement for human rights in the country. The Court determined that military courts cannot try civilians, mandating the cessation of ongoing military trials and the transfer of cases to civilian courts. Notably, the Court did not nullify previous convictions from military trials, leaving unresolved grievances for those affected.
For years, military courts in Uganda have conducted trials against civilians, often involving political dissenters and government critics. The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Act of 2005 establishes military courts, although they frequently lack legal standards concerning the trial process. Numerous instances of abuse, including torture, have raised serious concerns regarding the integrity and fairness of these military tribunals, prompting various courts to question their legitimacy.
The Supreme Court’s declaration is a significant stride towards ensuring fair trials in Uganda. It obligates the government to redress past injustices related to military court convictions and to uphold the rights of civilians. Human rights organizations have emphasized the need for accountability and judicial reform as a response to this ruling, encouraging the protection of civil liberties in Uganda.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
