Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, 80, has defended the controversial use of military courts to try civilians, following widespread criticism over the arrest and trial of opposition leader Kizza Besigye.

Museveni argued that military courts were necessary to handle crimes involving firearms to ensure national stability, citing inefficiencies in the civilian judicial system.

Kizza Besigye, 68, a long-time political rival of Museveni, was charged in a military court with possession of pistols and allegedly attempting to procure weapons abroad—allegations he strongly denies. Besigye’s arrest and prosecution have sparked significant outrage among his supporters and international observers, who see the move as politically motivated.

The opposition leader’s ordeal began last month when he was reportedly abducted while visiting Kenya. He was forcibly returned to Uganda, where he was detained and later charged. His trial has since faced delays, and on Tuesday, Besigye learned he would remain in custody through the Christmas holiday, with proceedings postponed until January.

President Museveni defended the military court’s jurisdiction over the case, stating that crimes involving firearms demand expedited handling to preserve the country’s stability. Critics, however, argue that this practice undermines the rule of law and stifles political opposition in Uganda.

The case has drawn international attention and added to the growing concerns about Uganda’s human rights record under Museveni’s decades-long rule.

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