
“Civilians must be tried in civilian courts, regardless of the accusations leveled against them. The Constitution of Uganda and international human rights law are clear on this point: military courts are for military personnel, not civilians” (Bobi Wine, 14.12.2024).
After the delusional statement of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on his dense defence of the civilians tried in a General Court Martial. His defence was just bonkers and had little weight behind the reasoning to continue the practice. Alas, now the Party President of the Opposition Party, National Unity Platform (NUP), Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine released his public statement in response. This will be discussed and needs to be shed lights on. As the General Court Martials needs to be used to whip the enlisted or the soldiers who acts ill in-action, but not as a tool of oppression, which it is used for in this day and age.
“Of course his statement comes at the backdrop of the citizens’ outcry and demand that the Supreme Court puts a final end to the trial of civilians in military courts. By issuing that statement, he is intimidating the court and certainly trying to influence their ruling- or trying to ensure that they do not deliver that ruling at all! In his desperate bid to cling to power, Museveni has made the military an instrument of oppression instead of defense. His claims that the kangaroo court martial system is about stabilizing the country are outright lies meant to mask his regime’s naked abuse of power and intimidate the people of Uganda into submission” (Bobi Wine, 14.12.2024).
Here the reality is addressed, the Opposition Leader is speaking his peace. The truth is shed light on and the means to an end. The Military Courts are there for one reason, but is used for another one. These are tools of oppression and put the people into submission. Everyone can see it and Bobi Wine only speaks facts here.
Bobi Wine continues:
“Trying civilians in military courts is not only illegal—it is dangerous. It creates a system where no one is safe. Today, it is opposition political leaders and activists. Tomorrow, it could be you, your family, or your neighbor falling victim. This is not justice—it is oppression! The Museveni regime thrives on fear, lies, and division. But we, the people of Uganda, know the truth. We know that his kangaroo court martial is not about stabilizing the country but about stabilizing his grip on power. We must reject it” (Bobi Wine, 14.12.2024).
This is just who the authorities are and how the power is used in the Republic. The state of affairs is the usage of force and intimidation. That’s how the NRM and the President has been able to stay in power for so long. As people are fearing to speak out or demonstrate. As they rather go along on their business, instead of dying or being tortured for acting against the oppressors. That’s how a violent oppressive government is keeping the people at a choke-hold and calling it “peaceful”.
Bobi Wine drops words of wisdom right here:
“We must reject the narrative that oppression and injustice are necessary for stability. True stability can only be achieved through upholding the rule of law, respecting human rights, and making a commitment to justice for all” (Bobi Wine, 14.12.2024).
This here is speaking out towards the ones that is accepting this nature of things and the status quo, as it is better with the devil you know versus the devil that is to come. It is better to support a friendly benevolent dictator, instead of a proper statesman in office. That’s the ones that is accepting the plight and suffering in the name of “stability”. This will sooner or later fail and people will revolt. Therefore, the idea of allowing injustice will sooner or later cause more harm. The usage of military court against civilians is just one of plenty of the things the NRM and Museveni does wrong towards its citizens. However, it is the hot-potato at the moment.
Bobi Wine spoke facts here and he acknowledge the bleak reality. A scenario and a state of affairs that needs to end. Nevertheless, as long as Museveni is in power. These sorts of practices will persist, as it is a gift that keeps on giving. These sorts of actions are keeping his administration alive and allowing him to reign supreme. That’s why the President and Commander-in-Chief will continue to use it and defend it. Peace.









