Youth Activists Call for an End to the Trial of Civilians in Military Courts and the Release of Eron Kiiza

The activists pointed to a history of political repression through the misuse of judicial processes.

Jan 17, 2025 - 13:07
Jan 17, 2025 - 20:19
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Youth Activists Call for an End to the Trial of Civilians in Military Courts and the Release of Eron Kiiza
Agather Atuhaire (2R) and other Youth Activists at the Presser held at Hotel Africana

On January 17, 2025, a coalition of youth activists and concerned citizens, led by Human rights activist and lawyer Agather Atuhaire, reiterated their demand for the immediate release of human rights lawyer Eron Kiiza, opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, and Obed Lutale Kamulegeya. Speaking at a press conference at Hotel Africana, the group condemned the use of military courts to try civilians, which they described as a violation of fundamental human rights and a tool for political persecution.

The activists criticized Uganda's judiciary for its failure to act against these injustices, accusing it of being complicit in perpetuating impunity. They further highlighted the prolonged trial of civilians in military courts as an illegal and unjust practice that has persisted for more than two decades under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) regime. The activists pointed to a history of political repression through the misuse of judicial processes. Dr. Kizza Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and outspoken critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has long been a target of what they termed "military persecution." Similarly, Eron Kiiza, who has tirelessly defended political dissidents, was sentenced to nine months in prison in January 2025 while representing Besigye in court. Obed Lutale Kamulegeya and 32 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) have also been detained in military courts for years without fair trial.

The activists decried these actions as part of a broader pattern of human rights violations, including the abduction of Besigye in Nairobi in November 2024, and his subsequent trial in the General Court Martial.

Recent Civic Actions

The group outlined a series of efforts undertaken to address these injustices:

January 9, 2025: Seven activists were arrested while marching to the Supreme Court to protest the trial of civilians in military courts.

January 15, 2025: A delegation visited Eron Kiiza at Kitalya Prison, where he expressed concerns about his liberty, his family's welfare, and the unjust persecution he faces.

January 16, 2025: Two activists were manhandled while delivering a petition to the Supreme Court.

Despite the intimidation, the petition was successfully submitted, outlining grievances about the judiciary’s failure to address these abuses.

The petition specifically called out the judiciary's inaction on rulings by the Constitutional Court, which had declared the trial of civilians in military courts unconstitutional in three separate cases. One of these cases, Attorney General v. Michael Kabaziguruka, remains pending in the Supreme Court, with no judgment delivered.

The activists accused the judiciary of enabling impunity by failing to implement its own rulings or deliver judgments on critical cases. They emphasized that justice delayed is justice denied, noting that prolonged delays in the judiciary have led to grave consequences for political prisoners and their families.

The inaction of the Supreme Court, they argued, has emboldened military courts to continue their unconstitutional trials, further undermining the rule of law in Uganda.

Demands and Call to Action

The activists issued the following demands: Immediate Judgment: The Supreme Court must expedite the delivery of its judgment in Attorney General v. Michael Kabaziguruka, a case central to the legality of trying civilians in military courts.

Transparency: The judiciary must provide a clear timeline or explanation for the delays in delivering key rulings.

Transfer of Cases: All cases involving civilians currently being tried in military courts should be transferred to civil courts.

National Mobilization: Ugandans are urged to join efforts to demand accountability from the judiciary and end political persecution.

A Unified Stand for Justice

Other activists present at the press conference included George Victor Othieno and Dr. Marion Kirabo, who echoed calls for an end to judicial complicity and a return to the rule of law. The group emphasized that the continued trial of civilians in military courts represents a gross violation of human rights and an affront to Uganda’s Constitution.

The activists vowed to continue their advocacy until justice is served, urging citizens, civil society organizations, and international bodies to support their cause. They called on Ugandans to resist impunity and stand in solidarity with victims of political persecution.

As the coalition concluded its statement, it left a clear message to the judiciary: "Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. Uganda cannot move forward as a nation without a judiciary that upholds the rule of law and defends the rights of its people."

John Kusolo John Kusolo is a Ugandan Journalist, Sport fanatic, Tourist, Pastor, and Motivational Speaker. * Journalist: He works for Nile Chronicles News, NCN. * Passion: Known for his dedication to his work and strong motivation. * Ambitious: He sets goals for himself and strives to achieve them. * Enjoys challenges: He thrives in challenging situations.