By Frank Kamuntu
At the 44th Tarehe Sita anniversary celebrations in Kyotera, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba did not hold back in expressing his discontent over the recent Supreme Court ruling, which declared the trial of civilians in military courts unconstitutional.
Speaking with considerable gravity, Muhoozi labeled the decision as both “unacceptable” and “unfortunate,” signaling a deep concern about its implications for national security and the operational capacity of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).
While honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for Uganda’s liberation, Muhoozi made it clear that the UPDF’s commitment to securing the nation and maintaining stability remains unwavering. He emphasized that the force’s core mission, which stretches beyond the legal debates of the present day, is to safeguard the country’s future. With firm conviction, he stated, “With the valuable experience and guidance of our seniors, we shall continue the agenda of fundamental change in our country as best as we can by guaranteeing the security of all our citizens.”
However, the General’s tone shifted sharply when addressing the Supreme Court’s ruling, which on January 31, 2025, ruled that civilian trials in military courts violate the Constitution, directing such cases be transferred to civilian courts. This ruling, which has been celebrated by human rights advocates and opposition voices as a triumph for constitutional rights, was met with strong opposition from Muhoozi and his father Gen Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
in his remarks, Muhoozi has said that the decision could have unintended consequences that jeopardize national security, particularly threatening the UPDF’s ability to maintain its discipline and combat readiness.
Muhoozi underscored the role the military has played in Uganda’s history, acknowledging that the UPDF, along with its predecessor, the National Resistance Army (NRA), was instrumental in bringing an end to the widespread lawlessness and tyranny that plagued the nation.
“The UPDF undoubtedly remains the foundation upon which democracy and social-economic transformation can be realised in our country,” he asserted, reflecting on the integral role the military plays in Uganda’s governance.
In his address, Muhoozi warned that the Supreme Court’s ruling could destabilize the effectiveness of the UPDF, potentially resulting in a breakdown of the force’s command, control, and administration. He emphasized that while the ruling is being discussed at the UPDF High Command, immediate steps need to be taken to prevent any lasting impact on the military’s function.
“It could herald a national security crisis, threatening the command and control and administration of the defence forces,” Muhoozi cautioned, suggesting that the security implications of the decision cannot be underestimated.
Asserting the urgency of the matter, Muhoozi called on President Museveni to act swiftly in addressing the issue. “We urge that you (President Museveni) address this as soon as you can,” he said.
In the interim, Muhoozi indicated that the Ministry of Defence and the Attorney General are actively working on legislative amendments that could restore the mandate of military courts, ensuring that national security remains intact.
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