Museveni Directs Review of Sovereignty Bill Amid Public Backlash

President Yoweri Museveni has instructed parliamentary leaders to revise the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, in response to intense public criticism. The bill, introduced on April 15, 2026, aims to shield Uganda’s national interests from undue foreign influence but has drawn backlash for its vague provisions that could harm economic freedoms.

In a statement released on April 30, 2026, Museveni expressed surprise at the ‘noise’ surrounding the legislation, emphasizing that his original intent was not to hinder foreign direct investments (FDIs), remittances from Ugandans abroad, or donations to religious groups. He stressed Uganda’s commitment to a free economy, where capital flows freely as a safeguard against corruption and a driver of growth.

Museveni directed Leader of Government Business Hamson Obua and relevant committee chairs to refocus the bill on sovereignty in policy decisions—covering political, social, economic, and diplomatic matters—without encroaching on private enterprise or personal transfers.

The uproar involved religious leaders, civil society, opposition figures, and others who argued the bill threatened civil liberties, economic stability, and clarity. Museveni invoked Africa’s anti-colonial history, urging respect for Uganda’s right to make its own choices through elections and referenda, free from funded external meddling.

He advocated influencing others through positive example, not coercion, and reaffirmed the NRM’s long-standing policies supporting open markets.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)