Principal Judge Abodo Urges Military Courts to Uphold Constitutional Standards

Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo with other officials poses for a photo with members of the General Court Martial and Leadership Code Tribunal

Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo has called on military courts to strictly observe constitutional standards while exercising judicial authority, emphasizing that all judicial power, regardless of where it is vested, remains subject to the Constitution.

Abodo made the remarks on Wednesday while officiating at the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed leadership of the General Court Martial. The event was held alongside the swearing-in of members of the Leadership Code Tribunal, who were also appointed by President Yoweri Museveni.

“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,” Abodo said.

She urged the newly sworn-in officials to administer justice with integrity, independence, and impartiality.

“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 added.

The new leadership of the General Court Martial takes office following the enactment of the UPDF Amendment Act, which permits the trial of civilians in military courts. This comes despite a January 31, 2025, Supreme Court ruling that had outlawed the trial of civilians in courts martial, raising renewed debate over the scope and legality of military justice.

The General Court Martial is headed by Brig Gen Richard Tukacungurwa, who previously served as a Judge Advocate. The leadership also includes two chairpersons of the Division Court Martial and 22 members of the Units Court Martial.

Meanwhile, the Leadership Code Tribunal is composed of five members: Dr Roselyn Karugonjo Segawa (Chairperson), Dr Anthony Conrad Kaweesi Kakooza (Deputy Chairperson), Ms Jane Okelowange (Member), Mr Didas Bakunzi Mufasha (Member), and Ms Annette Karungi (Member).

Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Government (IGG), Deputy IGG Dr Patricia Achan Okiria congratulated the new members and described the tribunal’s inauguration as a critical step toward strengthening accountability.

“The Inspector General of Government is very happy that the Leadership Code Tribunal is now in place. We have had a compilation of cases that require adjudication, and today marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards upholding integrity, accountability, and transparency in governance,” Okiria said.

She explained that the tribunal was established to promote ethical leadership and provide a clear framework outlining the standards of conduct expected of public officials.

Okiria urged both the tribunal members and the leadership of the General Court Martial to execute their duties with diligence, noting that their decisions would have a direct impact on public trust in government institutions.

“Your decisions will not only affect the lives of individuals but will also shape public trust in institutions. Your presence in the Leadership Code Tribunal and the General Court Martial will be pivotal in rebuilding that trust,” she said.

She further emphasized that the work of the tribunal would reinforce the principle that no one is above the law and that all leaders must remain accountable for their actions.

Okiria also called for collaboration among stakeholders, saying the fight against corruption and the promotion of ethical leadership require collective effort, partnerships, and strategic alliances.