Museveni Commends NRM MPs for Passing Sovereignty Bill

President Yoweri Museveni has lauded the National Resistance Movement (NRM) legislators in Parliament for demonstrating “ideological clarity” following the approval of the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026.

The bill, which passed on Tuesday evening, is designed to safeguard Uganda’s political and economic landscape against what the government terms “unwarranted foreign interference.” President Museveni stated that the passage of the bill signals that Uganda’s future is determined by its own people, emphasizing that the nation’s priorities should not be dictated by external entities.

He further elaborated by referencing historical examples, including the alleged British and Israeli support for Idi Amin’s coup in 1971, which he linked to President Obote’s opposition to their policies regarding Rhodesia. Museveni argued that this led to significant loss of life and instability in Uganda as they worked to rectify the situation.

The new legislation mandates the registration of “agents of foreigners” and introduces oversight for foreign funding exceeding Shs 400 million. Amendments were made to protect diaspora remittances and legitimate humanitarian aid. Despite the President’s commendation, opposition figures and civil society organizations have expressed concerns that certain provisions could be used to suppress dissent.

The bill now awaits presidential assent.