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The Ugandan government is facing intense scrutiny over a proposed piece of legislation known as the Protection of Sovereignty Bill 2026, which critics argue could severely undermine civil liberties and stifle dissent. The bill, which aims to impose harsh penalties for promoting “foreign interests,” is rapidly progressing through parliament with the aim of passing it prior to the presidential swearing-in on 12 May.
Implications of the Bill
Advocates of the bill, including Internal Affairs Minister Gen David Muhoozi, assert that it is designed to bolster national security by safeguarding Uganda from foreign influence that could disrupt its stability. However, opponents, including opposition leaders, human rights advocates, and legal analysts, have condemned the legislation as a thinly veiled attempt to suppress civil society and restrict the activities of individuals and organisations that rely on foreign funding.
“This law is a blatant replication of similar laws enacted by authoritarian regimes in Russia and China, aimed at dismantling any form of opposition,” asserted Joel Ssenyonyi, the leader of the Ugandan opposition. He warned that if passed, the bill could lead to increased poverty, deter foreign investment, and ultimately transform Uganda into an isolated state.
Vague Definitions, Broad Risks
The bill’s ambiguous language raises concerns about its potential to criminalise a wide array of activities, including advocacy, journalism, and public discourse. Notably, an earlier draft had controversially classified Ugandan citizens living abroad as “foreigners,” a provision that has since been removed following public backlash.
As the political climate in Uganda grows increasingly tense, with opposition figures facing charges related to foreign support, the urgency of this bill has become more pronounced. President Yoweri Museveni has repeatedly decried what he terms foreign meddling in Uganda’s affairs, arguing that external actors are responsible for political instability.
“Uganda is not a neo-colony where foreign entities can dictate its path,” Museveni stated after youth protests in 2024.
Legislative Backlash and International Concerns
Former government minister Asuman Kiyingi has voiced that the bill will not only inhibit lawful protest but will also suffocate dissent. “This is not mere regulation; it is encirclement,” Kiyingi remarked. He noted that the state has historically used the Public Order Management Act to restrict physical assembly and is now seeking to undermine civic engagement financially and intellectually.
Human Rights Watch has also expressed alarm, stating that the bill poses a threat to fundamental rights and has called on parliament to reject it. Key provisions include a cap on foreign financial assistance above 400 million Ugandan shillings (approximately £79,000) annually, along with the authority to conduct inspections of premises and access related documents.
In a letter to parliament, the World Bank warned that certain aspects of the bill could criminalise routine developmental activities, jeopardising Uganda’s access to essential funding for health, education, and civil society initiatives.
Economic Ramifications
Julius Mukunda from the Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group cautioned that the sweeping restrictions could substantially diminish foreign funding, with far-reaching consequences for the economy. “Such significant limitations could weaken the Ugandan shilling and slow down economic growth, especially in areas where foreign capital fills critical gaps,” he explained.
In light of the mounting opposition, President Museveni sought to address concerns on social media, dismissing fears regarding remittances and foreign investment as “noise” while reaffirming the bill’s intention to preserve Uganda’s sovereignty. He stated, “Independence means the right to make our own decisions if necessary and learn from them.”
Amendments proposed by the attorney general aim to exempt certain sectors, including financial institutions regulated by the Central Bank, as well as educational and healthcare organisations, from the bill’s more stringent provisions. Nevertheless, critics remain unconvinced, arguing that these adjustments do not adequately address the overarching threat to civil liberties.
Why it Matters
The proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill represents a critical juncture for Uganda, raising profound questions about the balance between national security and civil rights. As the country grapples with its identity amid rising authoritarianism, the implications of this legislation could extend far beyond its borders, affecting international relations, economic stability, and the fundamental rights of Ugandans. The outcome will not only shape the political landscape within Uganda but may also define its role on the global stage, potentially isolating it from crucial partnerships and support systems that are essential for sustainable development.