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Supreme Court Ruling: Rwakafuuzi Speaks Out, Vows to Continue Fighting for Human Rights Even in His Wheel Chair

By Jumah Kakomo

In the wake of a landmark Supreme Court ruling on January 31, 2025, Ladislaus Rwakafuuzi, Uganda’s prominent human rights lawyer, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the fight for justice. The ruling declared that civilians cannot be tried in military courts, a significant victory for human rights and the rule of law in Uganda.

Rwakafuuzi, who has long been an outspoken advocate for human rights, was among the key figures challenging the legality of the General Court Martial (GCM) trying civilians. The case, which initially involved former Nakawa Division lawmaker Michael Kabaziguruka, who argued that his trial in a military court was unconstitutional, has culminated in the Supreme Court’s landmark decision. This ruling follows a 2021 Constitutional Court judgment that had already declared such practices unconstitutional.

The ruling, delivered by Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, along with six other justices, emphasizes the need to uphold the constitutional rights of civilians and limits the military’s jurisdiction over them. It is seen as a blow to the government’s justification of military courts as necessary for national security.

Despite facing personal health challenges, including a debilitating stroke that has left him wheelchair-bound, Rwakafuuzi made it clear that he would not let his physical limitations silence him. “I will not be deterred,” he stated firmly. “I will continue to fight for justice and human rights, even if it means going back to court in my wheelchair.”

Rwakafuuzi’s comments come as a call to Ugandans to celebrate this monumental ruling. He emphasized that the Supreme Court’s decision is not only a victory for Kabaziguruka but also for every Ugandan whose rights have been infringed upon by military courts. He urged the public to recognize the courage of the judiciary in upholding the constitution, highlighting that this ruling will have lasting implications for the protection of civilians and the promotion of democracy.

“This is a victory for the people of Uganda,” Rwakafuuzi declared. “We must commend the Supreme Court for its bravery in standing up for justice.”

Dr. Sarah Bireete, Executive Director of the Center for Constitutional Governance (CCG)

In support of Rwakafuuzi’s sentiments, Dr. Sarah Bireete, Executive Director of the Center for Constitutional Governance (CCG), also praised the ruling as a critical step forward. She condemned the past practice of appointing individuals with little legal training as judges in military courts, undermining the fairness of trials. “We can no longer accept a system where those without proper legal education are entrusted with interpreting the law,” Bireete said. “The decision to remove civilians from military court trials is a step towards ensuring that justice is served fairly and impartially.”

Bireete also underscored the significance of this ruling for political prisoners who have often been subjected to arbitrary trials in military courts on politically motivated charges. She celebrated the ruling as a major victory in the long struggle for human rights and justice in Uganda, calling it a new era for the country’s judiciary and its commitment to democratic principles.

With both Rwakafuuzi and Bireete speaking out, the future looks hopeful for the continued fight for justice and the protection of human rights in Uganda, where legal reforms remain crucial for safeguarding the rights of the marginalized and political opposition.

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