Museveni praises parliament for passing UPDF Amendment Bill

President Yoweri Museveni has praised MPs for passing the controversial Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Amendment Bill, 2025, saying it will curb the misuse of military equipment and address armed criminality more effectively.

Speaking to leaders from the Greater Luwero districts on Wednesday at Timnah Schools in Luwero Town, Museveni commended members of parliament, particularly those from his ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) for their full support of the bill.

The NRM once again leveraged its numerical strength to push the legislation through on Tuesday, despite strong objections from opposition MPs. The new law expands the jurisdiction of military courts to try civilians accused of offences such as treason, aggravated robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms, a move that has sparked alarm among human rights groups and opposition lawmakers.

Museveni argued that civilian courts are ill-equipped to handle cases involving armed personnel or crimes related to military equipment.

Museveni said civilian courts that in the past failed to try simple cases like pig theft can’t be trusted with matters involving soldiers or army stores. He said once a civilian misuses guns or military uniforms, they ought to face the military courts.

The president insisted that military issues should remain within the domain of military courts, adding that the new law will strengthen discipline both within and outside the army ranks.

Museveni is currently on a tour of Greater Luwero, evaluating the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM). He is expected to conclude the tour with a public address in Nakasongola on Thursday.

The president’s son and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, also voiced his support for the bill on X (formerly Twitter).

“I want to congratulate the speaker of parliament, the Attorney General, the minister of Defence, the chief whip of NRM, and all NRM MPs for passing the amended UPDF bill. Today, you proved you are fearless patriots! Uganda will remember your courage and commitment. God bless you all,” Muhoozi posted.

However, opposition MPs have vowed to challenge the bill in court, arguing that it violates Article 92 of the 1995 Constitution, which prohibits parliament from enacting laws intended to overturn court decisions.

They contend that the bill contradicts a recent Supreme court ruling, which questioned the legality of trying civilians in military courts and emphasised the limited jurisdiction of such courts over non-military personnel.

Legal experts, civil society actors, and the Uganda Law Society have also raised concerns over lack of due consultation, potential abuse of military courts, and the erosion of fair trial rights, especially for civilians and soldiers who may now face restricted avenues for appeal.