UPDF Defies Supreme Court Ruling, Vows to Continue Military Trials of Civilians for Treason Cases

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have issued a response following the Supreme Court’s decision to halt the trial of civilians in military courts.

In a statement released on February 1, 2025, Col Chris Magezi, the Military Assistant to the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, asserted that the General Court Martial will continue prosecuting individuals accused of conspiring to assassinate the president or engaging in armed rebellion against Uganda.

Magezi emphasized that Col (Rtd) Kizza Besigye would not be released until he faces the full extent of martial law. He added that the final decision on the matter rests with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is the Commander-in-Chief and Chairman of the High Command.

Besigye, alongside Hajji Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola from the UPDF Armoured Brigade, is currently facing trial before the General Court Martial. They are charged with treachery and illegal possession of firearms.

However, Besigye’s legal team has challenged the trial’s legitimacy, arguing that civilians should be prosecuted in civilian courts. They contend that the military court lacks jurisdiction over them, particularly for alleged offences committed outside Uganda. Their position was reinforced by the Supreme Court’s ruling on January 31, which deemed such trials unconstitutional.