Cabinet sitting at State House in Entebbe has given a green light to the amendment of the UPDF Act to reflect recommendations by the Supreme Court.
In a land mark decision, the Supreme Court in January said trial of civilians in military courts under their current setup is unlawful.
The court also recommended that administratively, the General Court Martial (GCM) be established as a division of the High Court with jurisdiction to handle capital criminal cases involving both military officers and any civilians who would exceptionally fall within its ambit.
The highest court in the land also recommended that the functions of Unit Disciplinary Committees (UDCs) and Summary Trial Authorities (STAs) be limited to handling strictly disciplinary offences, with no power of imposing sentences of imprisonment.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday, the Minister for Information and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi said cabinet okayed the amendment of the UPDF Act to have the recommendations included.
“Cabinet sat and gave a green light to have the UPDF Act amended. To this, the General Court Martial will be constituted to provide for qualifications for members. Every member on the General Court Martial should a competently trained lawyer,” Dr.Baryomunsi said.
He said cabinet also gave a green light to the recommendation that the chairman of the General Court Martial must be at the level of a High Court judge.
“ We have made provision that if one is not satisfied with the decision of General Court Martial, you can appeal to the civilian court and the case can be heard again in the Court of Appeal and again if not satisfied, you can go to Supreme Court.”
The minister said cabinet also okayed the new composition of the Division Court Martials and Unit Disciplinary Committees as recommended by the Supreme Court in its decision.