The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has announced plans to challenge the constitutionality of the recently enacted Uganda People’s Defence Forces (Amendment) Act, 2025.
The controversial legislation, which was assented to by President Yoweri Museveni on June 12, has sparked fresh concerns among civil society actors over the growing militarization of civilian institutions and the erosion of constitutional governance.
In a strongly worded statement released on Monday, ULS Vice President Asiimwe Anthony reaffirmed the Society’s longstanding commitment to defending the rule of law, separation of powers, and judicial independence.
“This decision is consistent with the ULS’s history of standing against militarism and its encroachment on civilian authority,” said Asiimwe. “As we did in Constitutional Petition 18 of 2005, we will continue to push back against unconstitutional policies that threaten the rights and freedoms of Ugandan citizens.”
The Amendment Act, whose specific provisions remain undisclosed to the public, is believed to expand military jurisdiction and powers raising alarm among legal experts and rights defenders who view it as a setback to democratic oversight and judicial autonomy.
The ULS has indicated that the challenge will be spearheaded by its High Profile Case Unit under the direct supervision of the ULS President. The unit also intends to address the lingering impact of the Supreme Court’s Kabaziguruka decision, which upheld military court jurisdiction over certain civilians a ruling the ULS believes should be reversed to preserve judicial fairness.
“Our efforts to secure justice for those affected by military court actions remain steadfast,” added Asiimwe. “Even in the face of government opacity and limited resources, we are actively pursuing alternative funding avenues to ensure the affected detainees receive a fair hearing under civilian courts.”
The Uganda Law Society also called on citizens to remain alert and engaged during this critical period, stressing that the “Radical New Bar” remains fully committed to championing constitutionalism and protecting fundamental rights.
This latest move is likely to ignite debate in legal and political circles, especially as tensions continue to simmer over the role of the military in civilian governance structures. Analysts say the court petition could be a pivotal moment in shaping Uganda’s future legal framework and strengthening the country’s democratic institutions.
