Overview

• President Yoweri Museveni signed the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (Amendment) Act, 2025, reinstating military courts’ jurisdiction over civilians.
• The law reverses a January Supreme Court ruling that declared civilian trials in military tribunals unconstitutional.
• Opposition figures including Bobi Wine plan to challenge the legislation through a citizens’ petition in court.
• Human rights groups warn the restored system risks undermining impartiality and fair trial safeguards for political opponents.
• The military’s spokesperson described the measure as necessary to deter armed political violence ahead of the 2026 election.