The National Unity Platform (NUP) party leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu ‘Bobi Wine’, has raised serious allegations against the military.
He claims that some of his party’s supporters are being coerced into pleading guilty to charges of treachery and unlawful possession of ammunition.
This follows a high-profile appearance at the General Court Martial, where three NUP supporters, Paul Muwanguzi, Siraj Obalai, and Joseph Muganza, admitted guilt.
The three men, who had initially denied the charges, are part of 32 individuals accused by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
The charges stem from an incident in April 2024, when they were arrested and accused of plotting against the state.
According to Defence Lawyer Elizabeth Nyansingwa, her client’s decision to change their pleas came under circumstances that raise concerns about their treatment while in custody.
Kyagulanyi has alleged that the change of plea by the NUP supporters was made under pressure from the military.
Speaking to journalists in Makerere Kavule, he claimed that the 32 accused were given an ultimatum ‘plead guilty and implicate NUP leaders or face longer imprisonment’. According to him, some of the accused caved into this coercion.
“During our visits to Kitalya Prison, we aren’t allowed to speak to the detainees individually. Only one person speaks on behalf of the group.
On our last visit, we learned that soldiers were urging them to change their plea, threatening them with extended jail time if they refused,” Kyagulanyi explained.
He further criticised the military court system, accusing it of suppressing those who resist the regime and shielding the UPDF from accountability for human rights abuses.
He condemned the trial of civilians in military courts, describing it as unconstitutional and a violation of justice.
Kyagulanyi referenced a past ruling by the Constitutional Court, which declared it illegal for civilians to be tried in military courts, expressing frustration that the Supreme Court has yet to act on the issue.
On the other hand, UPDF spokesperson Brigadier General Felix Kulaigye denied the allegations, stating that no coercion took place and that the accused made their decisions freely.
Additionally, Captain Simon Nsubuga, the UPDF defense lawyer, informed the court that six more NUP supporters were interested in a plea bargain.
The case has sparked widespread debate about human rights, military justice, and Uganda’s political landscape.
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