The Chairperson and members of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) General Court Martial, alongside the heads of the Division and Unit Court Martials, have officially taken oath at the Supreme Court premises in Kampala.
The swearing-in marks the completion of a fully established General Court Martial, strengthening the military justice system with a clear framework for addressing disciplinary issues within the forces and other related offences. This milestone follows the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling of January 31, 2025, which issued directives intended to reform Uganda’s military judicial processes.
Those sworn in include Brig Gen Tukachungurwa Richard as Chairperson of the General Court Martial.
Other members of the General Court Martial are:
- Col Simon Wankandya
- Col Asha Patra
- Col Fredrick Kangwamu
- Lt Col Nasser Igambi Drago
- Maj Samuel Moses Amodoi
- Maj Emmanuel Arihaihi
- Maj Abubaker Nyombi
- Maj Denis Chemtai
The ceremony was officiated on behalf of His Excellency President Yoweri Museveni by the Principal Judge, Hon. Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, who praised the President’s leadership in fostering a professional and disciplined armed force.
“A professional army assures citizens that their security is in capable and principled hands,” Justice Abodo remarked.
She reminded the newly appointed judicial and quasi-judicial officers that the Constitution places upon them a solemn responsibility to exercise their mandate strictly within the law, guided by fairness, neutrality, and commitment to justice.
She noted that the occasion serves as a reminder that every oath taken and document signed represents a promise to the people of Uganda that justice will be delivered impartially and without bias.
Justice Abodo emphasized the interconnected roles of military and civilian institutions present at the event, stating that both are constitutionally mandated to promote discipline, order, and justice within the UPDF and the broader public service.
She stressed that while a disciplined military is essential for national peace and security, the exercise of judicial authority must always conform to constitutional principles.
Justice Abodo reiterated President Museveni’s longstanding position that the strength of a professional armed force extends beyond defense capabilities to include discipline, patriotism, respect for civilians, obedience to lawful authority, and unwavering allegiance to the Constitution.
“A soldier who trusts in a fair justice system is more confident, loyal, and dedicated. Likewise, a court that earns respect within the military must function with transparency, integrity, and fairness,” she said.
She called on the officers to uphold constitutional supremacy, safeguard the rights of all accused persons—whether military personnel or civilians and refrain from any actions that could suggest partiality.
Speaking at the ceremony, Attorney General Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka stated that the swearing-in underscored government’s commitment to the rule of law and adherence to judicial decisions.
“Any lingering doubts about government’s willingness to comply with Supreme Court directives should now be laid to rest,” he said.
Deputy Inspector of Government, Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, urged the newly sworn members of both the Leadership Code Tribunal and the General Court Martial to demonstrate integrity, accountability, and openness in their work.
She noted that their rulings would influence not only individual lives but also public confidence in national institutions, adding that both bodies play a critical role in building that trust.
UPDF Chief of Joint Staff, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, observed that during the period when Courts Martial were not operational following the Supreme Court decision, UPDF leadership relied on standard procedures and non-judicial disciplinary measures within the command structure to maintain order.
He said these approaches proved effective and helped sustain the UPDF’s reputation as one of the most disciplined forces on the continent.
The event was attended by Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet, Ms Lucy Nakyobe; Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission, Justice Douglas Singiza; Deputy Head of Public Service, Lady Justice Comfort Hamya; as well as permanent secretaries, commissioners, and registrars.
Also in attendance were Maj Gen Richard Otto, Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security; Service Chiefs of Staff; Brig Moses Wandera from Joint Staff Legal Services; other senior UPDF officers; and Supreme Court staff.
