The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, has clarified to Parliament that the Supreme Court ruling did not mandate the release of Dr. Kizza Besigye or any other prisoners currently on trial in the Court Martial.

This clarification came in response to a request from the Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa who had asked for an update on the progress of implementing the Supreme Court ruling on the trial of civilians by army courts.

Mao further informed Parliament that the ruling was not a directive but rather guidance, which is currently being reviewed by the relevant Government agencies for future implementation.

However, the Minister’s response caused discomfort among Opposition Members of Parliament who argued that his statement was unsatisfactory, leaving uncertainty about who is responsible for implementing the ruling.

By Francis Lubega

6 February 2025

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