Uganda Law Society Seeks Demilitarisation Fund to Support Justice
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has announced plans to establish a demilitarisation fund aimed at helping Ugandans facing trial in military courts access justice.
This initiative is expected to provide financial and legal assistance to individuals who struggle with legal representation in military courts.
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Arthur Isiko, the Treasurer of ULS, revealed that the organisation aims to raise at least 10 billion Ugandan shillings and more to ensure the fund’s effectiveness.
"Many individuals, particularly from Karamoja, incur additional costs to hire lawyers in civil courts after spending a long time behind bars in military courts. This fund will ease the financial burden on such individuals," said Isiko.
Speaking at a public event on Thursday, ULS Vice President Anthony Asiimwe emphasised the need for increased legal support in military courts.
"There are individuals in the military courts who are not visible and have no legal representation. ULS shall take the lead in offering legal representation to ensure justice is served," Asiimwe stated.
Isaac Ssemakadde, the President of ULS, also weighed in on the matter, highlighting the legal uncertainties faced by individuals previously tried in military courts.
"The Supreme Court judgment did not specify the outcome for each person affected by their trial in military courts. It was only clear for those with pending trials. This creates a gap in justice that ULS is committed to addressing," said Ssemakadde.
The demilitarisation fund is expected to support efforts to enhance access to justice for affected individuals and improve legal representation for those entangled in military judicial processes.
ULS remains committed to ensuring that all Ugandans, regardless of their legal circumstances, receive fair and adequate representation.
