Chairpersons of the Court Martial and military prosecutors have been urged to uphold fairness, impartiality and justice in the administration of military law in order to strengthen discipline and professionalism within the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
The call was made by Brigadier General Wycliff Keita of the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine while opening an eight-day Legal Services Induction Training at the Junior Staff College in Jinja.
Speaking to the officers, Brig Gen Keita warned those in charge of military justice against being influenced by personal or outside interests.
“Those entrusted with administering military justice must at all times remain fair, impartial and just. Your decisions should be guided by the evidence before court and the law, not personal interest or external influence,” Brig Gen Keita said.
He noted that the training comes at a crucial time, especially after a recent Supreme Court ruling that set new standards for how military courts should operate.
He said prosecutors and court chairpersons play a key role in protecting the reputation of the UPDF and maintaining public trust.
“The military justice system exists to maintain discipline and order in the UPDF and to ensure our soldiers remain law-abiding,” he added.
He encouraged the participants to use what they learn during the training to improve how they handle cases.
The Commandant of the Legal Training Centre, Colonel Susan Mwanga, said the course was meant to strengthen the officers’ understanding of proper legal procedures in military courts.
“This course is intended to remind you of the correct legal processes and to strengthen your capacity to dispense justice professionally,” Col Mwanga said.
The training brought together officials from Joint Staff Legal Services, led by Brig Gen Moses Wandera, along with officers from the Junior Staff College and members of the Court Martial.
