President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has firmly defended the trial of civilians in military courts, highlighting their role in stabilizing Uganda by swiftly addressing gun-related crimes. In a recent statement, Museveni referred to the military court martial as an “eyokyeero” (reinforcement) that supports civilian courts in handling cases involving firearms.
Museveni explained that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government enacted the law in 2005 to combat rampant criminal and terrorist activities involving firearms. He noted that such crimes posed a significant threat to public safety, necessitating swift and decisive action.
“The move was correct and useful, and it has contributed to the stabilisation of Uganda,” Museveni stated.
Overwhelmed Civilian Courts
The President pointed out that civilian courts are often burdened with a backlog of cases, ranging from murder to land disputes. This overload, he argued, makes them ill-equipped to swiftly address crimes committed by gun-wielding criminals.
“For stabilization, you need speed. These individuals, although not soldiers, voluntarily and with evil intentions acquired killing instruments that should be the monopoly of the Armed Forces,” Museveni emphasized.
Museveni defended the court martial system as a vital tool for ensuring efficiency and protecting public safety. He highlighted its role in removing dangerous individuals from society, noting that these detainees are provided with basic needs while in custody.
He stressed that the court martial operates under Uganda’s broader judicial framework, allowing superior courts to rectify any errors in judgment.
Success in the Karamoja Region
The President highlighted the court martial’s impact in the Karamoja region, where military courts have restored peace by addressing rampant violence. He revealed that thousands of armed youth were apprehended through military operations, and 900 out of 2,000 inmates at Kitalya Prison are Karamojong youths detained by military courts.
“The efficient and focused work of the military courts, supplemented by military operations, legally put away these confused youths from society for a given period,” Museveni said.
Museveni criticized civilian courts for granting bail or endlessly remanding suspects involved in serious crimes, describing such practices as “child play.” He credited the military courts with reducing violence in Karamoja and neighboring regions, adding that local leaders and elders have even requested pardons for some of the detained youth.
Referendum on Court Martial Trials
Museveni suggested that the use of military courts could be subjected to a public referendum in affected areas. He expressed confidence that citizens would overwhelmingly support the practice.
“If we were to have a referendum in the affected districts neighboring Karamoja, I am sure 100% would support the law,” he stated.
Enhancing Efficiency in Military Courts
The President commended the military courts for their contributions to national peace and directed the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) and other army officials to conduct an audit to improve their efficiency.
Ongoing Debate on Military Courts
Museveni’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about the appropriateness of trying civilians in military courts. Critics argue that the practice undermines Uganda’s justice system and violates the rights of the accused. However, the President insists that the court martial remains a vital tool for maintaining stability and ensuring swift justice.
By reinforcing the role of military courts in addressing gun-related crimes, Museveni has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding national security and promoting peace in Uganda.
