The Opposition in Uganda’s Parliament has resolved to actively participate in Tuesday’s plenary session where lawmakers are set to debate the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (Amendment) Bill was tabled for the first reading in Parliamentlast week by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs. It has been under joint scrutiny by the Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs and the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee.
The bill seeks to reorganize the UPDF structure, redefine ranks and command, and create legal room for trying civilians in military courts.
Speaking to journalists from his boardroom at Parliament on Monday, the LOP voiced serious concern about the rushed handling of the 150-page bill, particularly criticizing the limited and abrupt nature of public consultations and committee sessions.
“Consultations were not properly done. Some people were called on short notice even an hour before meetings. This cannot pass for proper consultation,” he remarked.
Among the most contentious provisions in the bill is a clause permitting the trial of civilians by military courts under ‘exceptional circumstances’ — a proposal the Opposition has firmly rejected. The LOP emphasized that Uganda’s civilian courts are fully competent to handle capital offences, including treason and terrorism, without recourse to military tribunals.
He also raised questions about the speed with which the bill is progressing through Parliament, suggesting that monetary inducements may have played a role.
“The speed at which this bill is moving makes it evident that certain MPs may have received money to facilitate this process,” he said, referencing reports that up to UGX 100 million was allegedly distributed to some MPs, including those in the Opposition.
Despite these reservations, the Opposition has resolved to participate in the plenary debate, asserting that Parliament remains the most critical platform for expressing their stance on behalf of Ugandans.
“Our people elected us, and they expect us to speak out. They know we have fewer numbers, but they want to hear those few voices speak out loudly,” he affirmed.
“We are not going to walk out. If they want, they can move us out as they have done before by deploying security forces or switching off the lights. But we shall not surrender our space voluntarily.”
He cited the controversial passage of the Coffee Bill as a precedent, during which Opposition MPs were forcibly removed from the chambers after journalists were asked to vacate the premises.
In his remarks, the LOP also called on Ugandans to continue engaging through social media and other public platforms, noting that civic engagement plays an important role in holding leaders accountable.
“Even if your voice isn’t recorded in the Hansard, your comments on Twitter, Facebook, or WhatsApp matter. Whether it’s a video, audio, or text, it adds value in the grand scheme of things. Don’t stop speaking out.”
The UPDF Amendment Bill, 2025, is scheduled for extensive consideration in today’s 34th Sitting of the 3rd Meeting of the 4th Session of the 11th Parliament, beginning at 10:00 AM. According to the official order paper, Parliament will also deliberate the Political Parties and Organisations (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in what is expected to be a highly charged legislative session.