NELSON K
A wave of national debate and tension has swept across Uganda following the passing of a highly controversial UPDF bill by the country’s Parliament on Tuesday, 20th May. The bill, which seeks to expand the jurisdiction of the court-martial to include trying civilians, has triggered strong reactions from both local leaders and residents, sparking concerns over the future of democratic governance in the country.
The bill’s passage, which critics claim was politically motivated and influenced by monetary gain, has become a lightning rod for public outrage. Residents and local leaders, especially in regions like Nyarushanje, have openly criticized Members of Parliament under the ruling NRM party for what they describe as a betrayal of national interests.
Speaking to our reporter, Nyarushanje LC3 Chairperson Michael Musiime condemned the MPs for selling out the country for personal gain, urging citizens to remain vigilant, lawful, and prayerful in the face of what he called growing injustice.
Musiime further argued that Uganda already has a comprehensive and functioning legal system with established courts such as the Grade One Magistrate Court, Chief Magistrate Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court — all designed to serve justice to civilians. He criticized the bill as a sign of creeping corruption and a move to militarize justice, reinforcing the grip of the ruling party.
Opposition voices have also weighed in. Turinawe Ingrid Kamateneti, a vocal opposition figure, expressed deep sorrow and disappointment over the bill. Speaking to Boona Radio, she noted that the current direction the country is taking shows a disregard for rule of law and democratic procedure. She strongly condemned both NRM and certain opposition MPs who she claims accepted a UGX 100 million bribe to pass the bill.
Ingrid further alleged that the proper legal procedures required to turn a bill into law were not followed, accusing the executive branch of manipulating the process. She warned that this bill could be used as a political weapon, specifically targeting opposition figures such as Dr. Kiiza Besigye, stating that the act was meant “to finish him up.”
However, Hon. Donozio Kahonda, Member of Parliament for Ruhinda South, offered a contrasting perspective. In an interview with Boona Radio, he downplayed the fears, insisting that the Court Martial amendment only targets individuals involved in serious crimes like illegal possession of guns or military materials, not ordinary civilians.
Kahonda explained that the intention behind the amendment is to support the welfare of the military — both active and retired soldiers, as well as families of deceased service members — ensuring fair pensions and recognition for their sacrifices. He emphasized that the process had been underway since 2021 and was not a sudden political maneuver.
Now, all eyes are on President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is expected to either approve or reject the bill as the final step before it becomes law.
