A shocking and surprising clause in the recently enacted UPDF Act has left many Ugandans unsettled. The Act has drawn considerable attention from the public as it grants the Court Martial authority to try civilians, overturning a previous Supreme Court ruling.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is also the First Son, have praised this Act significantly. It appears that the primary focus of the Act is on the trial of civilians within military courts, while other provisions received less attention.
As many citizens take the time to thoroughly read the Act, they are particularly taken aback by the provision that allows the CDF to assume control in specific situations. The Act states that the CDF can take charge of the nation during a state of emergency or in instances of political turmoil.
“The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Amendment Bill, 2025, enacted by Parliament, contains stipulations for extraordinary situations in which civilians may be tried in military courts. This legislation does not explicitly provide the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) with authority to ‘take over the command and control of a state’ during emergencies or political unrest. Its main focus is on the jurisdiction of military courts and the circumstances under which civilians can be tried by them.”
On May 20, 2025, Speaker Anita Among and Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs Jacob Oboth Oboth stated that the law is not intended to indiscriminately target civilians. Instead, it aims to specifically identify those engaged in military-related activities.
Nonetheless, the clause that allows the CDF to take control of the State in certain situations has ignited a renewed debate. Many believe this could be an indication of a plan for Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba to succeed his father, President Museveni, as the next leader of the country.
