Court Martial – Semakadde Heads to EA Court to Challenge Supreme Court Ruling

Uganda Law society (ULS) has put the Government on notice indicating that it will challenge  before the East African Court of Justice last month’s Supreme Court ruling which banned the trial of civillains in Millitary courts.  

According to ULS , the 6-1 majority decison  had  double edged language which suggests that Millitary courts can still try civillians if given proper jurisdiction through amendments which totally undermines the rule of law.

The Supreme Court suggested for the recognition of the General Court Martial as a court of Law whereas the Constitution classifies it as a tribunal. The ULS also objects to the transfer of all files pending before Millitary courts to civillian courts in an unregulated manner.   

According to the ULS , the said decision raises grave concerns about the judiciary’s commitment to uphold human rights and the rule of law.  

The ULS is also not happy with the  recent appointment of the Deputy Chief Justice Flavian Zeija and other justices which they contend  fell short of Public participation and vetting.

The Society is further  concerned with the continued appointment of High Court judges on probation (acting capacity) despite a Constitutional court ruling which declared the same as unconstitutional.  

The ULS through its president  Isaac Ssemakadde  is now calling for amendments in the Judicial Service Commission Act to provide for public appointments and vetting of judges.