The article discusses the increasing militarism in Uganda, highlighted by a recent report from HURIPEC. It emphasizes the militarized governance under the NRM regime, the implications for civil rights, and alarming incidents indicating state brutality against opposition supporters. The analysis concludes that the militarization represents a serious threat to Uganda’s peace and stability, undermining constitutional principles and public trust in governance.
In recent discussions regarding Uganda’s peace and stability, the rising militarism in the country has been identified as a significant concern. A report from the Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC) at Makerere University, titled ‘GUNS, BREAD AND BUTTER: Militarization of Economic Sectors and Public Institutions in Uganda: A Socio-Legal Analysis,’ explores the depths of militarization and its implications for Ugandan society, raising essential questions about the trajectory of the nation under such influences.
The report specifies militarism as a philosophy endorsing military methods and force as the primary means to resolve societal issues. The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), led by President Yoweri Museveni since 1986, has integrated the military into the state’s framework, positioning it as a central authority in governance. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the army chief and President Museveni’s son, highlighted this relationship, asserting that the military has been crucial in safeguarding democracy and promoting socio-economic change in Uganda, despite the stark constitutional provision that power resides with the people.
Recent events reflect the alarming influence of militarism, where confrontations between armed personnel and civilians are increasingly common. For instance, during Kizza Besigye’s court appearance, an armed operative displayed excessive power, directly challenging the established norms in a civilian court. This was followed by violent crackdowns on opposition supporters at campaign rallies, emphasizing the stark contrast between how the ruling party operates and how the opposition is treated, thus highlighting state-sponsored double standards.
Further alarming depictions of militarization were observed through interactions with the Joint Anti-Terrorism Task Force (JATT), which has been implicated in a series of human rights violations. A Human Rights Watch report previously classified JATT as a contributor to serious abuses, including illegal detentions and torture, revealing a disconcerting shift towards authoritarianism under the guise of security.
The normalization of militarization threatens to erode civil liberties and public confidence in law enforcement. HURIPEC posits that a sustained military presence results in the police becoming a violent entity, violating human rights, thus deteriorating public trust in their efficacy. This situation is exacerbated by Uganda’s historical struggles with militarism, rooted in colonial legacies and the tumultuous regimes of the late 20th century.
Looking back, the origins of the National Resistance Army (NRA) during Uganda’s instability highlight that the principles driving revolutionary change are now at risk of being undermined. Historical perspectives illustrate how the atrocities committed by previous governments drove civilians toward the NRA, seeking to restore autonomy and dignity. Conversely, if today’s regime leans heavily on military force and intimidation, it risks alienating the very populace it seeks to govern.
In conclusion, the escalating militarism poses a severe threat to Uganda’s long-term peace and stability. The recent trends of military interventions in civilian matters and the brutal suppression of opposition highlight a worrying shift towards authoritarianism. The fusion of military power with state governance challenges the constitutional principles underpinning Ugandan sovereignty, illuminating a path toward possible unrest if left unchecked. It is critical for Ugandans to interrogate the militarization of their institutions and advocate for a return to civil supremacy and democratic governance.
Original Source: www.independent.co.ug
