Africa-Press – Uganda. The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has concluded an induction course for Court Martial Chairpersons, Prosecutors and Members, in a move aimed at strengthening the administration of military justice within the force.
The training, held at the Legal Training Centre at Gaddafi Barracks in Jinja District, began on February 2, 2026 and brought together 89 officers from the UPDF legal fraternity.
The course focused on enhancing their capacity to execute their duties with professionalism, fairness and accountability.
Presiding over the closing ceremony, the Commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College (SCSC) Kimaka, Brig Gen Michael Kabango, underscored the weight of responsibility entrusted to court martial officials.
“You are going into positions where your decisions will have far-reaching consequences on lives and careers. This responsibility is not small, and it demands fairness, integrity and a deep respect for justice,” Kabango said.
He urged the officers to remain mindful of the human impact of their decisions, particularly on individuals whose voices may not easily be heard within the system.
“Justice must not only be done, but it must also be seen to be done. As you take up these duties, always reflect on whether your actions promote justice and protect the dignity of those you serve,” he added.
The Commandant of the Legal Training Centre, Col Susan Muwanga, said the induction was critical in reinforcing discipline and accountability within the UPDF.
“These officers will play a central role in the justice process, from the initiation of trials to their conclusion, particularly on the side of the government. Their work is essential to ensuring discipline and accountability in the force,” Muwanga said.
She noted that a competent and principled military justice system is vital to maintaining professionalism and sustaining public confidence in the UPDF.
The ceremony was attended by senior and junior officers, who congratulated the participants and encouraged them to uphold the highest standards of conduct as they assume their new responsibilities.
The completion of the induction course forms part of the UPDF’s broader efforts to strengthen its legal and judicial mechanisms through continuous professional development, in line with the principles of justice and the rule of law.
