The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has criticised the Supreme Court’s ruling against trying armed civilians in military courts, calling it unfortunate and unacceptable.
Speaking at the 44th Tarehe Sita celebrations at Kasasa Town Council Grounds in Kyotera district, he warned that such developments would undermine the UPDF’s ability to maintain combat effectiveness, professionalism, and discipline, qualities for which the Ugandan military is renowned globally.
“Last week, we were shocked to receive a judgment from the Supreme Court that, in effect, halts all trials conducted by military courts. The UPDF and its predecessor, the NRA, which we honour today, provided the lasting solution to the tyranny, killings, and lawlessness that had plagued Uganda for so long,” he said. “The UPDF, without doubt, remains the foundation upon which democracy and socioeconomic transformation can be realised in our country.”
Gen Kainerugaba, who is also the Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, stressed that the UPDF’s historical mission, which predates the laws now being debated, could not have been achieved without a disciplined force.
Without delving into details, he described the ruling as “so unfortunate and quite unacceptable,” warning that it could lead to a national security crisis and disrupt the effective command, control, and administration of the defence forces. He urged the President to address the issue as soon as he could.
“We shall not abandon or compromise the UPDF’s historical mission under any circumstances,” he said.
In the meantime, he noted that the UPDF is collaborating with the Attorney General and the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs to pursue the necessary legislative amendments to clarify the mandate of military courts.
During the celebrations, which were presided over by President Yoweri Museveni, who is also the commander-in-chief of the UPDF, Gen Kainerugaba outlined key military operations and activities. These include Operation Shujaa in eastern DRC, the transition from the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), the completion of disarmament operations in Karamoja, and the collective responsibility of maintaining internal security.
He also shared insights from his recent visit to the joint UPDF-FARDC forces in North Kivu and Ituri Provinces, noting that they have “severely degraded and dismantled ADF as a fighting force.”
“It has been greatly weakened,” he said, adding that not only have abducted individuals been freed, but entire villages have been liberated from enemy occupation.
“Our fight against terrorists in Congo is promising so much hope to the people of that region,” he said, reaffirming the UPDF’s commitment to staying the course until ADF is eliminated.
Regarding Somalia, he acknowledged the challenges posed by the fragile and unpredictable situation in the country but assured that Ugandan troops are managing the transition effectively. He reaffirmed the UPDF’s determination to sustain the gains made over the past 18 years.
Reflecting on the significance of the Tarehe Sita celebrations, Gen Kainerugaba remarked that they demonstrate “how far we’ve come and where we aim to go as a country.”
“Ours has been a journey of continuous growth, some challenges notwithstanding,” he said, emphasising the honour and reverence accorded to those who sacrificed their lives for the struggle.
He reiterated that the agenda of fundamental change would continue, especially in “guaranteeing the security of all our citizens.”
“As the UPDF, we’ve worked tirelessly to consolidate the fruits of the liberation struggle,” he said, highlighting efforts not only in securing Uganda’s borders but also in supporting “our brothers and sisters across the continent.”
“This Pan-African spirit will remain the cornerstone of our mission as UPDF,” he said, adding that Uganda is now strong, peaceful, and prospering. He assured that any emerging saboteurs during the election season are being closely monitored by intelligence services.
Gen Kainerugaba also provided updates on critical projects undertaken since assuming office as CDF, particularly efforts to curb corruption.
“Our resources are being utilised more effectively,” he said, ensuring that value for money is prioritised.
He revealed that the construction of the Ministry of Defence and UPDF headquarters is progressing as planned and is expected to be completed within two years or even earlier.
Additionally, he announced that the Military Referral Hospital will be opened in the coming months, accommodation facilities are being expanded, and issues surrounding fair remuneration are being addressed, all part of a broader plan to improve troop welfare.
He described these achievements as a testament to the UPDF’s commitment to infrastructure development and providing a dignified working environment for soldiers.
The CDF also informed the President that the UPDF is strengthening ties and forging new partnerships with fellow African militaries and beyond through military cooperation agreements
