Politics 29 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Uganda Parliament Rejects Protection of Sovereignty Bill Amid Widespread Opposition
Uganda's Parliament has rejected the controversial Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, after over 90% of stakeholders testified against it during committee hearings. The proposed law, aimed at curbing foreign influence, drew sharp criticism for its broad definitions and potential to harm remittances, academia, and the economy. Source: https://observer.ug/news/sovereignty-bill-rejected
Uganda’s legislative body has turned into a key arena for debates on national power, finances, and sovereignty. The Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, introduced by State Minister for Internal Affairs David Muhoozi on April 15, 2026, sought to protect the country from excessive external interference.
Government supporters argued it was essential for tracking foreign funding in politics and key institutions, similar to laws in other nations. However, opponents viewed it as a threat to civil liberties, economic stability, and constitutional principles.
Referred to committees on defence, internal affairs, and legal affairs, the bill faced massive backlash. More than 90% of witnesses, including civil society, professionals, students, and citizens, opposed it. Civil engineer Pariyo Dan called the resistance historic, comparable only to the age limit bill, reflecting a national consensus.
Critics highlighted vague terms like ‘foreigner,’ which could include diaspora Ugandans, and ‘agent of a foreigner’ for anyone handling foreign-linked funds in advocacy or politics. Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi defended diaspora remittances worth $2.5 billion yearly, vital for families, education, and businesses.
Legal experts like Asiimwe Anthony from the Uganda Law Society warned it shifts sovereignty from people to the executive, potentially requiring a referendum under Article 260. Economists such as Godber Tumushabe feared disruptions to banking, NGOs, tourism, and cross-border trade due to new authorization rules for large foreign funds.
Academics, led by Makerere’s Jude Ssempebwa, raised alarms over impacts on research collaborations and study programs. Lawyers pointed to absurdities, like classifying exiled professionals or diplomats as foreigners.
Despite defenses from Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka emphasizing balanced security and growth, Parliament ultimately rejected the bill, signaling priorities for openness and public will.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)