General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, President Museveni’s son and the Chief of Defense Forces, has issued a bold ultimatum demanding a written apology from Uganda’s Supreme Court over a ruling against the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) and Uganda.
In a strongly worded social media post, Muhoozi warned that if the apology does not come “quickly,” “other things will follow.”
The explosive statement made via his official X (Twitter) account has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s political and legal circles sparking fierce debate over judicial independence, military influence, and the rule of law in the country.
Supreme Court of Uganda recently delivered a landmark ruling against the UPDF and Ugandan government which banned the prosecution of civilians in military courts arguing that such trials are unconstitutional, biased, and a violation of fundamental rights.
While the ruling was hailed by legal experts and human rights defenders as a victory for judicial independence, it appears to have infuriated General Muhoozi who has now taken an unprecedented step of demanding an apology from the highest court in the land.
Legal experts argue that judges cannot be forced to apologize for their rulings as their role is to interpret and uphold the law without political or military interference.
So far, Uganda’s Supreme Court has remained silent refusing to respond to Muhoozi’s demands.
However, legal analysts warn that such statements erode public trust in the judiciary and could set a dangerous precedent where powerful military figures publicly challenge court decisions.
The Ugandan government has also not commented, leaving many wondering whether Muhoozi’s statement represents official government policy or a personal opinion.
Given his influential position as the First Son and a high-ranking military officer, his words carry weight and potential consequences.
Muhoozi’s demand has sparked mixed reactions among netizens like opposition politicians who have condemned the remarks accusing him of undermining democracy and threatening judicial independence.
While Muhoozi’s supporters especially Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) have backed his stance arguing that the judiciary should not act against national security interests.
Muhoozi’s warning that “other things will follow” leaves many to wonder what actions he intends to take if the Supreme Court does not comply.
