Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba Condemns Supreme Court Ruling on Military Courts at Tarehe Sita Celebrations

Kyotera, Uganda –The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has strongly criticised the recent Supreme Court ruling that bars military courts from trying armed civilians, calling it an unfortunate and unacceptable decision.

Speaking at the 44th Tarehe Sita celebrations held at Kasasa Town Council Grounds in Kyotera District, Gen. Kainerugaba warned that the ruling could undermine the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) in maintaining combat effectiveness, professionalism, and discipline—qualities for which it is renowned globally.

Gen. Kainerugaba: "The Ruling is Unfortunate and Unacceptable" Expressing his discontent, Gen. Kainerugaba said:

"Last week, we were shocked to receive a judgment from the Supreme Court that, in effect, halts all trials conducted by military courts. The UPDF and its predecessor, the NRA, which we honour today, provided the lasting solution to the tyranny, killings, and lawlessness that had plagued Uganda for so long."

He further emphasised that the UPDF remains the foundation upon which democracy and socioeconomic transformation can be realised in Uganda.

Without delving into specifics, the CDF described the Supreme Court ruling as "so unfortunate and quite unacceptable," warning that it could lead to a national security crisis and disrupt the command, control, and administration of the defence forces.

He urged President Yoweri Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF, to address the issue urgently.

"We shall not abandon or compromise the UPDF’s historical mission under any circumstances," he stated.

Legislative Amendments in Response

To counter the effects of the ruling, Gen. Kainerugaba revealed that the UPDF is working closely with the Attorney General and the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs to push for the necessary legislative amendments that would clarify the mandate of military courts.

Highlighting Key Military Operations

During the celebrations, which were presided over by President Yoweri Museveni, Gen. Kainerugaba took the opportunity to highlight key UPDF operations and activities:

Operation Shujaa in Eastern DRC:

The CDF shared insights from his recent visit to North Kivu and Ituri Provinces, where the joint UPDF-FARDC forces have successfully weakened and dismantled the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group.

He noted that abducted individuals have been rescued, and entire villages liberated from ADF occupation.

"Our fight against terrorists in Congo is promising so much hope to the people of that region," he said, reaffirming Uganda's commitment to eliminating ADF.

Transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM in Somalia:

He acknowledged the fragile situation in Somalia but assured that Ugandan troops are managing the transition effectively.

The UPDF remains determined to sustain the security gains made over the past 18 years in Somalia.

Disarmament in Karamoja:

The completion of disarmament operations in Karamoja has improved security in the region.

Internal Security: 

He reiterated the UPDF’s role in maintaining peace within Uganda and supporting regional stability.

Tarehe Sita: A Celebration of Uganda’s Liberation Journey

Reflecting on the significance of the 44th Tarehe Sita celebrations, Gen. Kainerugaba described them as a moment to appreciate how far Uganda has come and where it aims to go as a nation.

"Ours has been a journey of continuous growth, some challenges notwithstanding," he remarked.

He paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for Uganda’s liberation, emphasising that the agenda of fundamental change would continue.

"As the UPDF, we’ve worked tirelessly to consolidate the fruits of the liberation struggle," he said, highlighting the UPDF's efforts in securing Uganda’s borders and assisting other African nations.

Gen. Kainerugaba’s remarks at the Tarehe Sita celebrations signal the UPDF’s firm stance against what it perceives as a threat to its operational effectiveness. The Supreme Court ruling on military courts remains a contentious issue, and with the UPDF seeking legislative amendments, the debate over the role of military courts in Uganda is far from over.

As the country continues to navigate these legal and security challenges, one thing remains clear: the UPDF, under Gen. Kainerugaba’s leadership, is determined to uphold discipline, professionalism, and national security at all costs.