Africa Rule of Law Discussion Series: Principles of justice and military trials in Uganda

Join us for this timely virtual panel about the Ugandan government’s trial of opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye, and the concerns for the rule of law and human rights raised by Uganda’s ongoing use of military trials against civilians.

Our speakers will discuss the use of Ugandan military courts to try civilians for crimes, often on charges that could be considered political in nature, and the implications of this practice for human rights, the judicial system, and the rule of law in Uganda. They will address additional questions raised by Dr. Besigye’s case and others like it, including extrajudicial abductions of political opponents and reprisals against attorneys for representing political opposition figures or human rights defenders.

While these issues are especially relevant for Uganda, it is not the only country experiencing these challenges. Our international panelists, representing Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda, will explore the regional context and risks in other countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

This event is sponsored by the Vance Center, the New York City Bar Association’s African Affairs and International Human Rights Committees, Pan African Lawyers Union, and Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights.

Register to attend virtually

Principles of justice and military trials in Uganda

Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Time: 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. EST / 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. EAT

Location: Virtual on Zoom

Speakers

• Hon. Martha Karua, SC, Human rights activist and lawyer and lead counsel for Dr. Besigye’s legal team
• Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, Professor of the Practice of International Human Rights Law, Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University
• Dr. Kabumba Busingye, Senior Lecturer, Human Rights and Peace Centre, Makerere University School of Law
• Moderator: Adaobi Egboka, Africa Program Director, Vance Center

Register to attend virtually