“You Can Talk As Much As You Wish But Kizza Besigye Will Never Be Released” Gen Muhoozi’s Camp Breaks It’s Silence

Ugandans were left stunned and bewildered after Col. Chris Magezi, a military assistant to Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, made a statement that directly contradicted a recent Supreme Court ruling.

On February 1, 2025, Magezi announced that opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye would remain in military custody, despite the court’s landmark decision that civilians should not be tried in military courts. His remarks sparked outrage and legal concerns across the country.

“The General Court Martial will continue to try anyone who conspires to murder the president, commits armed rebellion against Uganda, and engages in terrorism against the people of Uganda,” Magezi declared, insisting that Besigye’s case was no exception.

His statement immediately raised questions, as it was framed as an official position of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), despite the fact that Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye is the military’s official spokesperson. Many Ugandans began questioning whether Magezi had the authority to speak for the UPDF and why there appeared to be confusion within the military ranks.

Human rights lawyer Dr. Sarah Bireete strongly condemned Magezi’s remarks, calling them unconstitutional.

“This is absolute rubbish,” she said. “The military cannot override the authority of the Supreme Court. Any soldier who refuses to respect civilian authority should be removed from the UPDF.”

Bireete emphasized that the Constitution is clear on the separation of powers and that the military must respect judicial decisions.

The controversy has deepened Uganda’s ongoing legal and political struggles over the military’s role in civilian affairs. The Supreme Court ruling barring military trials for civilians was a significant step toward upholding constitutional rights, yet the UPDF’s defiance suggests a growing power struggle between the judiciary and the armed forces.

With tensions rising, Ugandans are now eagerly awaiting a response from President Yoweri Museveni, who has previously expressed dissatisfaction with the court’s ruling.

“This issue needs clarity,” one concerned citizen remarked. “We cannot have the military making decisions that openly defy the courts.”

As the standoff continues, the country watches closely to see whether the rule of law will prevail or if military influence will continue to challenge Uganda’s judicial authority.