President Museveni has once again defended the controversial UPDF (Amendment) Bill, responding to criticism for the second time in under a week. The bill, recently passed by Parliament, gives military courts the authority to prosecute civilians accused of serious crimes involving soldiers.
While addressing a thanksgiving rally for State Minister for Public Service Mary Grace Mugasa in Kikuube District, Museveni emphasized that national security is vital for development. He dismissed opposition MPs—whom he referred to as “young, bearded”—for suggesting that military personnel involved in grave crimes like murder, rape, or embezzlement of military funds be tried in civilian courts.
“These MPs are busy making noise, proposing that serious crimes by soldiers be tried by ordinary magistrates,” he said mockingly.
Museveni questioned the effectiveness of civilian courts, stating, “How can magistrates manage soldiers when they’re struggling with petty cases like pig theft?”
He cautioned opposition legislators that challenging military legal procedures was risky, while applauding NRM MPs for rejecting such proposals. He argued that some military matters are classified, making it inappropriate for civilian courts to handle such cases.
He added that trying soldiers in regular courts would be “childish” and out of touch with the military’s realities.
The UPDF (Amendment) Bill gives military tribunals power to try civilians in cases involving treason, murder, and aggravated robbery—especially when these crimes are linked to the armed forces.
While legal experts and opposition MPs have criticized the bill for undermining constitutional rights and civilian judicial independence, Museveni defended it by highlighting the discipline and global respect earned by the army since 1971.
He further argued that civilians using firearms effectively place themselves under military jurisdiction.
“The moment someone chooses to use a gun, they’ve already entered the realm of military law,” he said.
The bill now awaits Museveni’s formal approval, which is expected given his strong endorsement.
