Human rights activists want the Government to stop the practice of trying civilians in military courts.

This follows the recent arrest of Dr. Kizza Besigye’s lawyer Eron Kiiza at the Makindye based General Court Martial and sentenced him to nine months at Kitalya prison for contempt of court.

Now led by Agather Atuhaire, the activists argue that this practice violates the fundamental rights of civilians and undermines the rule of law.

They cited several cases where civilians have been arbitrarily arrested and tried in military courts, often without access to legal representation or a fair trial, including the National Unity Platform (NUP) political prisoners most of whom have been on remand since 2020.

The activists also expressed concern about the lack of transparency and accountability in the military justice system noting that military courts often operate secretively and on orders, making it difficult to monitor their proceedings to ensure justice.

Now, they have sounded a call to action, urging Ugandans to stand against the practice of trying civilians in military courts.

By Charles Katabalwa

17 Nov 2024

END