President Yoweri Museveni has defended the use of military courts to try civilians in Uganda. He believes this practice is necessary to quickly address rising crime and terrorism in the country. His comments come as legal experts raise concerns about the legality of these military trials.
The President pointed out that civilian courts are overwhelmed and cannot handle cases quickly. He referred to a law from 2005 that allows military courts to try civilians, arguing they are more efficient in dealing with serious crimes and terrorism.
“The need for stability and rapid action against those who indiscriminately use firearms to kill is paramount” President Museveni said. He stressed that military courts can speed up legal processes, which helps keep the public safe.
Critics, including some lawyers, have questioned whether trying civilians in military courts is constitutional. However, President Museveni insisted that using military courts is necessary for national safety. He noted that issues like illegal gun possession should be managed by the military.
“The civilian courts were clogged with many court cases of the whole country: murder, rape, assault, robbery, land matters, divorce matters etc. They could, therefore, not handle these gun-wielding criminals quickly” President Museveni said.
The President also mentioned that military courts provide benefits, such as food, medical care, and protection for those held there. He assured doubters that these courts are overseen by civilian courts, allowing those who feel wronged to appeal their cases.
A recent letter supported Museveni’s views, praising the quick handling of cases in military courts. It stated that these courts can swiftly release innocent people while ensuring that guilty ones are punished.
President Museveni expressed confidence that many Ugandans would support using military courts, emphasizing their role in maintaining peace and security in the country.
