The Ugandan government is planning to introduce new legislation that would permit military courts to try civilians for specific offenses, despite a previous Supreme Court ruling that outlawed the practice. This move has sparked concern among human rights groups and opposition leaders, who argue that military tribunals have historically been used to target political opponents and suppress dissent.

The proposed law would allow military courts to try civilians under "exceptional circumstances," according to Justice Minister Nobert Mao. The government insists that the law is necessary for national security and has rejected abuse allegations. However, critics argue that bringing civilians before military judges undermines the fairness and impartiality of the justice system.

This development comes just months after Uganda's Supreme Court ruled in January 2025 that military courts lack jurisdiction to try civilians, ordering the immediate transfer of such cases to civilian courts. The ruling impacted high-profile cases, including that of opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who had been facing charges in a military tribunal.

Despite the court's decision, the Ugandan government is pushing forward with the proposed legislation, which awaits cabinet approval before being introduced to parliament. If enacted, it could potentially return Besigye's case to a military court. Human rights groups and opposition leaders are concerned that the law could be used to target political opponents and suppress dissent, citing the government's history of relying on military courts to prosecute opposition figures and activists on charges they claim are politically motivated.

The move has sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that it undermines the country's democratic principles and the rule of law. The Ugandan government's decision to introduce this legislation has also raised concerns about the country's commitment to human rights and the protection of its citizens.

As the proposed law makes its way through the legislative process, it remains to be seen how it will be received by the international community and what implications it will have for Uganda's political landscape. One thing is certain, however: the move has sparked a heated debate about the role of military courts in trying civilians and the potential consequences for democracy and human rights in Uganda.