Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Women Movement and Civil Society Organizations have issued a joint statement condemning the government’s failure to comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling, declaring sections of the Uganda People’s Defence Act (UPDF) Act unconstitutional. The ruling, made on January 31, 2025, ordered the immediate cessation of military trials of civilians and their transfer to ordinary courts of law.
Despite the ruling, Dr. Kizza Besigye, a prominent opposition leader, remains in detention, with his health significantly deteriorating. The government’s inaction has sparked widespread concern among human rights organizations and opposition leaders, who are demanding Besigye’s immediate and unconditional release.
The Supreme Court’s ruling is not an isolated incident. For years, military courts have tried hundreds of civilians, including opposition leaders and government critics, in trials that have fallen short of domestic and international standards. These trials have routinely violated the right to a fair trial and freedoms guaranteed by the Uganda Constitution.
Human Rights Watch has documented numerous cases of torture, arbitrary detention, and denial of access to medical care for those detained. The organization has also expressed concern over the growing authoritarian practices of the regime, including the use of military drones to kidnap opposition leaders.
Opposition leaders, including Robert Kyagulanyi, Mugisha Muntu, and Erias Lukwago, have joined forces to demand Besigye’s release and an end to the military trial of civilians. They have also called for the government to respect the Supreme Court’s ruling and guarantee access to adequate medical care for Besigye.
The Uganda Women Movement and Civil Society Organizations are urging the international community, including regional bodies and international human rights organizations, to condemn the government’s blatant disregard for human rights and the rule of law. They are also calling for significant pressure to be exerted on the Ugandan government to respect its human rights obligations and ensure Besigye’s immediate release and access to medical care.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Ugandan government’s failure to comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling is a stark reminder of the country’s deteriorating human rights record. The international community must take action to hold the government accountable and ensure that justice is served for Dr. Besigye and all Ugandans who are being illegally detained for exercising their civic duties.