Uganda Proposes Controversial Law Empowering Military Courts to Try Civilians

Kampala, Uganda – In a controversial move, Uganda’s government has announced plans to introduce a bill that would empower military courts to prosecute civilians, a reform that has stirred public outcry and condemnation from various human rights groups. The proposal, poised to broaden the jurisdiction of military tribunals, marks a significant shift in the legal landscape of the East African nation. The bill, set to be introduced to Parliament shortly, is primarily targeted at offenses related to the possession of military hardware by unauthorized persons. According to government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo, the measure is deemed … Read more

Top IDF Lawyer Highlights Inadequate Measures to Protect Civilians in Pre-Gaza Strike Assessments

The top legal advisor for the Israel Defense Forces has raised concerns about the military’s practices in operational planning, specifically pointing out gaps in protecting civilian lives during airstrikes in Gaza. This critique highlights ongoing challenges in balancing military objectives with international humanitarian law obligations, particularly in densely populated areas. The legal counsel scrutinized the IDF’s strategy and operational tactics, emphasizing that there is often insufficient effort to account for civilian presence before launching military strikes. This issue is critical given the densely populated nature of Gaza and the complexities involved in armed conflicts that … Read more