By Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has defended the trial of civilians in military courts, citing the need for speed in stabilizing the country. In a statement, Museveni argued that the law allowing civilians to be tried in military courts was enacted in 2005 to address the rampant activities of criminals and terrorists.
The president’s statement comes amid controversy over the trial of opposition leader Kizza Besigye in a military court. Some lawyers have argued that trying civilians in military courts is incorrect and that they should be tried in civilian courts instead.
Museveni emphasized that the military courts are subordinate to the general courts and that if they judge badly, the superior courts will rectify the issue.
“Besides, the court martial court system is a subordinate one to the general courts of the whole country. If the Court Martial judged badly, the superior courts will rectify the
issue.
Museveni adds The advantage is that, in the meantime, these dangerous actors are legally being fed, and medically treated by the State and are kept away from harming people. It is also good for the lawbreakers because that dangerous enterprise of killing People can lead to their deaths in encounters with peace and law─protection agencies.
He also pointed out that the military courts have contributed to the return of peace in Karamoja and neighboring areas.
Karamojong youth that had been safely put in prison by the active Court Martial courts in the 3rd Division AOR (Area of Responsibility). Kitalya Prison has 2000 inmates, and the Karamojong youth account for 900
of that number.
Museveni has directed the Chief of Defense Forces to audit the Karamojong youth in prison to determine which ones can be pardoned. He has also suggested that a referendum be held on the issue, expressing confidence that the majority would support the law.
