Members of General Court Martial have been formally sworn in at the Uganda Supreme Court Offices in Kampala.
The swearing-in completes the fully constituted structure of the General Court Martial, providing the army’s judicial system with a framework to handle matters of discipline within the forces and other related offences.
The development follows the landmark Supreme Court ruling of January 31, 2025, which issued recommendations aimed at reforming Uganda’s military court system.
Presiding over the ceremony on behalf of His Excellency President Yoweri Museveni, the Principal Judge, Hon. Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, commended the President for his guidance in building a professional and disciplined army.
“It is good to have a professional army because we know we are being protected by people who know what they are doing and are doing the right thing,” Justice Abodo said.
She reminded the newly sworn judicial and quasi-judicial officers that the Constitution entrusts them with a sacred duty to exercise authority strictly in accordance with the law, guided by fairness, impartiality and fidelity to justice.
“Today’s ceremony is a reminder that every signature appended and every oath taken is a pledge to the people of Uganda that justice shall be administered without fear or favour, affection or ill will,” she said.
Justice Abodo underscored the complementary roles of the military and civilian institutions represented at the ceremony, noting that both are constitutionally mandated to ensure discipline, order and justice within the UPDF and the wider public service.
“A disciplined military is indispensable to the peace and security of our nation. However, the exercise of judicial power, wherever it is located, remains subject to constitutional standards,” she added.
She reiterated President Museveni’s consistent message that the strength of a professional army lies not only in its ability to defend the nation, but also in its discipline, patriotism, respect for civilians, obedience to lawful authority and total subordination to the Constitution.
“A soldier who knows that justice will be administered fairly is more secure, more loyal and more committed to service. A court that commands respect within the military must itself operate in accordance with justice, transparency and integrity,” Justice Abodo said.
She urged the officers to uphold the supremacy of the Constitution, respect the rights of all accused persons, both soldiers and civilians, and avoid any conduct that could create a perception of bias.
In his remarks, Attorney General Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka said the ceremony demonstrated the government’s commitment to the rule of law and respect for court decisions.
