Uganda Defence Spokesman Defends Civilian Boot Ban, Suggests Color Alternatives

Uganda's Director of Defence Public Information, Major General Felix Kulayigye, has publicly supported the contentious prohibition against civilians wearing black military-style boots. This follows President Museveni's enactment of the UPDF Amendment Act, which grants military courts broader jurisdiction over civilians and explicitly bans public use of attire resembling army gear—including black ankle and ranger boots.

Security Versus Identity

Appearing on Sanyuka Television, Maj Gen Kulayigye emphasized that the regulation aims to help security forces differentiate soldiers from civilians: "If a civilian wears black ankle boots, how can one distinguish them from military personnel? We'd appear identical." He suggested simple alternatives, stating, "Aren't there boots in different colors? Those without unlawful motives should try other hues."

Opposition Backlash and Legal Challenges

The ban has drawn sharp criticism from opposition factions, particularly the National Unity Platform (NUP), whose supporters adopted black boots as a political symbol. Human rights advocates and lawyers have denounced the law as a suppression tactic. A Kampala-based rights attorney argued, "This criminalizes legitimate political expression under false pretenses of national security. Since when is footwear a threat?" Multiple groups are preparing to contest the law's constitutionality in court.

Critics note that while the UPDF has previously restricted civilian use of military apparel citing impersonation concerns, such measures disproportionately target government detractors. "These regulations are selectively enforced to intimidate dissent," stated one analyst, reflecting broader accusations of eroding civil liberties.