The Cabinet has approved significant amendments to the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Act, aimed at strengthening the credibility and fairness of the military justice system.
This was revealed by the Minister for Information and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, during a press briefing on Tuesday.
Dr. Baryomunsi said the decision was reached during a Cabinet meeting held at State House, Entebbe, on Monday.
The move is aimed at aligning the UPDF Act with a recent Supreme Court ruling concerning the trial of civilians in military courts.
One of the key changes is the requirement that all Chairpersons of Court Martial bodies, including the General Court Martial, must be legally trained and qualified lawyers.
This comes in response to past concerns over unqualified individuals presiding over military trials, some involving serious decisions such as death sentences.
“You can’t even send somebody to death if you have never been trained in the matters of law,” Hon Chris Baryomunsi said, emphasizing the importance of legal expertise in judicial proceedings.
The amendments also align the military justice system with a recent Supreme Court ruling that highlighted flaws in the existing UPDF Act—particularly the inability to appeal Court Martial decisions in civilian courts.
Under the new provisions, individuals tried in military courts, including civilians, will now have the right to appeal decisions to civilian courts, beginning with the Court of Appeal and, if necessary, the Supreme Court.
“Now, if you are not satisfied with the decision of the Court Martial, you can appeal to a civilian court,” Baryomunsi added.
The reforms also redefine the General Court Martial to operate at a level equivalent to the High Court, reinforcing its judicial authority while ensuring it adheres to constitutional principles of justice and fairness.
Parliament is expected to debate the amended bill in the coming days.