Tag Archives: UPDF Act

“The outcome of this petition will have far-reaching implications for Uganda’s democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. As the court deliberates on this matter, it is essential to consider the principles of constitutional supremacy, judicial independence, and the protection of human rights,” Dr.Ssemugenyi pointed out. Kampala, Uganda | …

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Amendment Bill, 2025 is set to sail through parliament, with legislators okaying civilians to be tried in military courts. The bill seeks to amend the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces Act to streamline the composition of the organs and structures …

COMMENT | REGINA ASINDE |  The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (Amendment) Bill, 2025 tabled in parliament today has triggered serious concerns among human rights defenders and constitutional law experts. While the bill purports to streamline military administration and align structures with evolving defence needs, it dangerously extends military court jurisdiction …

COMMENT | Nicholas Opiyo | The UPDF (Amendment) Bill, 2025 will be tabled in the Ugandan parliament tomorrow by Oboth Oboth, the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs. It is 143 pages long with 84 clauses – by all means a major overhaul of the UPDF Act. On top of most …

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga Road faction, now operating under the name People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), has cautioned Members of Parliament against amending the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Act to permit military courts to try civilians. Speaking at their offices …

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Constitutional court has for the second time in less than two years ruled that military courts have no power to try civilians. In a majority ruling written by now Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Musoke, the court held that military courts are not courts of …

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Attorney General has filed a notice of appeal intending to challenge the Constitutional Court ruling against the powers of the Court Martial. Last week, the Constitutional court ruled that the Court Martial has no powers to try civilians. In a majority ruling of three …

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Constitutional Court has ruled that the Court Martial has no powers to try civilians. In a majority ruling of three justices against two, the court ruled that although the Court Martial is a competent court under the 1995 Constitution, its powers are only limited …

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Parliament has passed the Law Revision (penalties in criminal matters) Miscellaneous Amendment Bill 2015 effectively scrapping the mandatory death sentence. The bill sought to amend the Penal Code Act, the Anti-Terrorism Act, the Uganda Peoples Defense Forces (UPDF) Act, and the Trial on Indictment Act …

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Ministry of Defense is mooting for amendments in the Uganda People’s Defense Forces-UPDF Act, to cater for the concerns and interests of ex-combatants and veterans. State Minister for Veteran Affairs Bright Rwamirama says that the UPDF Act, in its current form does nit cater …