President Yoweri Museveni has expressed disappointment over the recent Supreme Court decision barring the trial of armed civilians in military courts, calling it a “wrong decision” that undermines national security.
In a statement, the President argued that military courts play a crucial role in reinforcing the civilian judicial system, particularly when dealing with criminals who acquire illegal firearms.
“If you are not a soldier, why do you arm yourself with guns, and moreover for criminal purposes?” he questioned, saying that such individuals should not complain when tried by military tribunals.
Despite the ruling, Museveni acknowledged what he termed “positive movement” among some justices, commending Justices Chibita and Mugyenyi for supporting the military court’s jurisdiction over armed criminals. He also noted that Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo recognized the potential for military courts to handle such cases with certain procedural adjustments.
Museveni further explained the effectiveness of military courts in stabilising volatile regions such as Karamoja, where civilian magistrates had previously feared to operate. He credited the military courts with reducing crime and rehabilitating warrior youth in the region.
Arguing for legislative reforms, the President urged the Attorney General to propose constitutional amendments that would ensure military courts retain jurisdiction over armed civilians.
