Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka Announces End To Civilian Trials In Military Courts Following Supreme Court Ruling

By Spy Uganda

In a groundbreaking move that is poised to transform Uganda’s legal system, Attorney General Kiwanuka Kiryowa announced significant reforms following the Supreme Court ruling on January 31, 2025, which prohibits the trial of civilians in military courts. The landmark decision has brought a sense of justice and hope, particularly among opposition figures and human rights advocates who have long condemned the use of military courts to silence political opponents.

Speaking at a press conference this week, Kiryowa emphasized the immediate cessation of all ongoing cases involving civilians in the General Court Martial (GCM). “The law is clear. Civilians should not be tried in military courts. We are taking the necessary steps to transfer these cases to the civilian judicial system,” he said.

This ruling comes after years of growing concerns and criticisms, particularly from opposition leaders such as Dr. Kizza Besigye, who have faced military trials for charges often seen as politically motivated. Dr. Besigye, a longstanding critic of President Yoweri Museveni’s administration, has previously been accused of illegal possession of firearms and attempting to purchase weapons abroad—a charge he continues to deny. Under the new ruling, cases like Besigye’s, which were previously handled by the GCM, will now be transferred to civilian courts, ensuring that trials are conducted by independent judges.

While the Supreme Court’s decision represents a significant reform in Uganda’s judicial system, it will not affect military personnel, who will continue to be tried under the military court system. However, the transfer of civilian cases to civilian courts marks a substantial shift, with legal experts praising the move as a critical step towards ensuring impartiality and fairness in the legal process.

“This is an important step toward justice and democracy,” said a human rights lawyer. “It strengthens the rule of law and ensures that civilians are treated under the rights afforded to them in the civilian judicial system.”

This move not only signals a positive change for Uganda’s judicial independence but also underscores the government’s intent to uphold justice in a more transparent and accountable manner.