The PFF wing of Uganda's FDC party strongly opposes changes to military law that would let army courts try civilians. Their spokesperson, Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, called the proposed amendment unconstitutional during a Kampala press conference. He claimed lawmakers received about $27,000 each as bribes to back the changes, similar to alleged payments for passing a coffee bill last year.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja confirmed that parliament will consider amending the UPDF Act soon. This follows a Supreme Court decision that ruled military courts cannot legally try civilians. The court also questioned whether these tribunals should even handle military personnel cases. Ssemujju believes President Museveni wants these changes because he disagrees with the court ruling.
The amendment could affect prominent cases like that of Dr. Kizza Besigye, arrested in Kenya last November. Besigye faces treason charges alongside political partner Obed Lutale Kamulegeya and army Captain Denis Oola. Their case moved from military to civilian court after the Supreme Court ruling. The High Court recently denied bail to Besigye and Lutale, angering PFF supporters.
Ssemujju also criticized election officials for delaying PFF registration as a political party despite their application eight months ago. Human rights groups have long criticized using military courts for civilian trials.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja confirmed that parliament will consider amending the UPDF Act soon. This follows a Supreme Court decision that ruled military courts cannot legally try civilians. The court also questioned whether these tribunals should even handle military personnel cases. Ssemujju believes President Museveni wants these changes because he disagrees with the court ruling.
The amendment could affect prominent cases like that of Dr. Kizza Besigye, arrested in Kenya last November. Besigye faces treason charges alongside political partner Obed Lutale Kamulegeya and army Captain Denis Oola. Their case moved from military to civilian court after the Supreme Court ruling. The High Court recently denied bail to Besigye and Lutale, angering PFF supporters.
Ssemujju also criticized election officials for delaying PFF registration as a political party despite their application eight months ago. Human rights groups have long criticized using military courts for civilian trials.
