**Uganda Revives Military Trials for Civilians Amid Controversy**

President Yoweri Museveni's amendment allows military courts to try civilians under certain conditions, despite previous Supreme Court rulings deeming such practices unconstitutional.

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has enacted legislation that permits the trial of civilians in military courts under specific circumstances, reigniting debates about justice and human rights in the country. This amendment comes on the heels of a Supreme Court ruling from January, which declared previous provisions for military trials unconstitutional.

Prior to the ruling, military tribunals could impose trials on civilians found with items such as firearms or military garb. Critics argued that such laws were manipulated to target dissenters and political opponents. This recent legislative move has drawn criticism from various quarters, including opposition leaders and civil rights advocates who view it as a violation of democratic norms.

Despite the controversies, the Ugandan government maintains that the amendment is necessary for national security and to deter violent criminal activities. Army spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi asserted that it would provide "decisive" measures against armed criminals. In an attempt to address previous concerns, the amendment stipulates that judges in military tribunals must possess legal qualifications. It also emphasizes the need for the independence and impartiality of those administering the courts.

Opposition figures have condemned the law, suggesting it's an intentional mechanism for silencing government critics. Bobi Wine, a well-known opposition leader, expressed fears that the law would specifically target members of the opposition. The Uganda Law Society has indicated plans to challenge the constitutionality of the amendment, stating that it undermines the rule of law.

Human rights lawyer Gawaya Tegulle highlighted the risks posed to political opponents who may find themselves subjected to military trials, where they could face prolonged detention and harsher penalties compared to civilian courts. The change follows the notable case of Kizza Besigye, an opposition leader who recently faced military charges after crossing into Uganda, which were later transferred to civilian jurisdiction following the Supreme Court's ruling.

Museveni, in power since 1986, criticized previous judicial decisions and emphasized that Uganda's governance lies within the people's will, not solely within judicial interpretations. He justified the military court system as a necessary tool to address threats posed by gun violence and criminal activities, suggesting that civilian courts lack the capacity to manage these urgent issues effectively.

This development has generated significant discourse surrounding legal rights, government oversight, and the balance between national security and civil liberties in Uganda.