Uganda’s FDC Hails Supreme Court Ruling on Court Martial Jurisdiction, Condemns Museveni’s Defiance

Uganda’s opposition party, the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has welcomed a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court, which declared that military courts have no jurisdiction to try civilians.
In a statement issued Monday, the FDC commended Chief Justice Alfonse Owinyi Dollo and the Supreme Court justices for upholding the rule of law and reinforcing judicial independence.
The ruling was in response to a legal challenge spearheaded by opposition politician Michael Kabaziguruka, who argued that military courts lacked the competence to prosecute civilians.
“This decision is a victory for all Ugandans who have faced trial before a ‘court’ which, as affirmed by the ruling, has neither the competence nor the authority to try civilians,” the statement read.
However, the FDC expressed concern over President Yoweri Museveni’s reported refusal to implement the ruling, calling it a “blatant defiance” of the Constitution and a violation of the separation of powers.
“His refusal to respect this fundamental principle sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the democratic foundation of our nation,” the statement continued.
Speaking at a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Kampala, FDC Vice Chairman Robert Centenary warned that if Museveni continues to disregard the Supreme Court’s decision, Ugandans may be compelled to take constitutional action against his administration.
The ruling marks a significant judicial milestone in Uganda, where military courts have long been used to prosecute opposition figures and government critics. Despite growing calls for adherence to the ruling, it remains unclear how the government will respond.
Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, has not issued an official statement on the matter.