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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 24239, member: 2262"] Museveni Criticizes Supreme Court Ruling on Military Trials of Civilians. President Yoweri Museveni has issued a strong rebuke against Uganda's Supreme Court decision that declared the trial of civilians in military courts unconstitutional. In a statement to Ugandans, Museveni began by highlighting recent positive developments in rural wealth creation programs across the Busoga and Lango regions. He then addressed the court ruling, expressing his disagreement with the decision regarding armed civilians in military court martial trials. The president defended the military court system, stating it strengthens civilian judicial processes in protecting citizens from armed criminals. "If you are not a soldier, why do you arm yourself with guns, moreover, for criminal purposes and illegally?" Museveni questioned. He praised Justices Chibita and Mugyenyi for supporting the trial of armed criminals in military courts. The president acknowledged Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo's suggestion that military courts could be used with certain adjustments. Museveni cited the military courts' role in maintaining stability, particularly in the Karamoja region. He emphasized their effectiveness in disciplining the area and protecting young warriors who might otherwise face deadly confrontations with the army. The president stressed that Uganda's governance rests with its voting citizens rather than judges. He directed the Attorney-General to propose constitutional amendments to preserve military courts as a "useful self-protection instrument" for the country. Addressing specific cases, Museveni explained that military courts handle rape and corruption cases involving soldiers to protect the army's integrity. He argued that armed civilian offenders should face initial trials in military courts to safeguard society. The statement concluded by drawing an unexpected comparison to Western jurisdictions that legalize same-sex marriage, suggesting that if such laws exist, Uganda should maintain its right to try armed civilians in military courts. [/QUOTE]

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