Uganda and courts-martial

It is reported that President Museveni has appointed Brig-General Richard Tukachungurwa as Chairperson of the General Court Martial.

Prominent human rights lawyers have sharply criticised President Museveni’s appointment of Brigadier-General Richard Tukachungurwa as Chairperson of the General Court Martial, describing the move as a grave setback for justice, accountability, and the rule of law in Uganda.

Brig Tukachungurwa — the military officer who presided over the dramatic January 2025 confrontation that saw lawyer Eron Kiiza arrested, convicted, and jailed inside the General Court Martial — was appointed on November 25 to replace Brig Robert Freeman Mugabe, whose term expired in June.

His promotion has reignited concerns over the independence and conduct of the military justice system.

Reacting on Wednesday, human rights lawyer Kiiza condemned the appointment in the strongest terms, saying it signalled deep institutional decay.

Nile Post, 3 December 2025.