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Let's respect court decisions

Empty chairs set for the Supreme Court justices ahead of their ruling on the jurisdiction of the military court in trying civilians on January 31, 2025. PHOTO/ ABUBAKER LUBOWA 

What you need to know:

  • Ugandans are watching, and the world is waiting. Let us seize this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and to build a more just, equitable, and democratic society for all.

The January 31 ruling by the Supreme Court that court-martial proceedings should not try civilians is a landmark decision that underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law in Uganda, and ought to be respected. 

This verdict is a significant milestone in the country's journey towards consolidating democracy and promoting human rights, which the National Resistance Army government has prided itself in for close to 40 years in power.

However, the true test of the government's commitment to the rule of law lies in its willingness to respect and implement this court order(s).

In light of this development, and President Museveni’s reaction to the ruling, it is imperative that the government of Uganda demonstrates its respect for the Judiciary and the constitutional principles that underpin our perceived democracy.

For purposes of this discussion, let’s bite off a bit of what Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo said. 

“All charges, or ongoing criminal trials, or pending trials, before the courts-martial involving civilians, must immediately cease and be transferred to the ordinary courts of law with competent jurisdiction,” Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo ruled.

The court's decision, therefore, is very loud and clear: Civilians should not be subjected to court martial proceedings. This ruling is not only a victory for the individuals who were unfairly tried, but also a triumph for the principles of justice, equality, and human rights.

In a democratic society, the rule of law is the foundation upon which all other institutions are built. It is the safeguard that protects citizens from arbitrary state action and ensures that those in power are held accountable for their actions.

Therefore, we urge the government to respect the court's decision and ensure that civilians are not subjected to court martial proceedings, and even those that are still in detention or appearing before the courts are transferred to the right courts as directed by the ruling. This requires a commitment to upholding the rule of law, and respecting the independence of the Judiciary. Anything less would undermine the integrity of our democratic institutions and erode public trust in the government.

Otherwise, Ugandans are watching, and the world is waiting. Let us seize this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the rule of law and to build a more just, equitable, and democratic society for all.