Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba Slams Supreme Court Ruling on Military Courts

Kyotera, Uganda – The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has strongly criticized the Supreme Court’s ruling against trying armed civilians in military courts, calling it “unfortunate and unacceptable.”

Speaking at the 44th Tarehe Sita celebrations in Kyotera district, Gen Kainerugaba warned that the ruling could undermine the UPDF’s ability to maintain combat effectiveness, professionalism, and discipline.

The CDF emphasized that the UPDF’s historical mission, which predates current laws, required a disciplined force to achieve its goals.

“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 honor today, provided the lasting solution to the tyranny, killings, and lawlessness that had plagued Uganda for so long. We shall not abandon or compromise the UPDF’s historical mission under any circumstances,” Gen Kainerugaba said.

He described the ruling as potentially leading to a national security crisis and disrupting the effective command, control, and administration of the defense forces, thus urging President Yoweri Museveni to address the issue promptly.

Gen Kainerugaba also outlined key military operations, including Operation Shujaa in eastern DRC and the transition from ATMIS to AUSSOM in Somalia.

The CDF reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to its historical mission, stating that the force remains the foundation of democracy and development in Uganda.

“Our fight against terrorists in Congo is promising so much hope to the people of that region, and I reaffirm the UPDF’s commitment to staying the course until ADF is eliminated,” Gen Kainerugaba noted.

Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba emphasized the importance of maintaining national security, particularly during the election season, and assured that the UPDF is working tirelessly to consolidate the fruits of the liberation struggle.

Pictorial

The 44th Tarehe Sita celebrations in Kyotera district.