Uganda leader signs new law allowing military trials for civilians

Kampala, Uganda - Uganda's President Willy Muka has signed into law a controversial bill that allows military courts to try civilians accused of terrorism, sabotage, and other security-related offences. The move comes after a wave of bombings and attacks against Ugandan civilians in recent months. The legislation, which was passed by Parliament last week, has been criticised by human rights groups and opposition parties, who say it grants military courts unlimited powers and undermines the independence of the judiciary. They argue that the law will be used to target government critics and opposition parties. However, Defence Minister Robert Kayongo defended the law, saying it would help to deal with terrorism more effectively and ensure justice for victims of terrorism. He added that the law would only target those involved in serious offences and that civil cases would still be tried in civilian courts.

"This is not a reintroduction of the much-criticised provision in the now-repealed Anti-Terrorism Act, which gave extensive powers to the military, including the ability to hold suspects in military detention for 12 months without charge. This is a more targeted and proportionate response to the crisis we face," said Kayongo.

According to the new law, civilian courts will retain jurisdiction over cases not deemed security-related. Human rights groups and opposition parties plan to challenge the law in the Constitutional Court.