Uganda Passes Controversial Sovereignty Bill Targeting Foreign Influence

Uganda’s Parliament has approved the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, a sweeping law aimed at curtailing foreign interference in domestic political affairs. The legislation, passed after intense debate and procedural controversy, defines an ‘agent of a foreigner’ as any individual or entity engaged in activities that advance foreign interests—including fundraising, campaigning, or funding political parties, candidates, or civil society groups.

Under the new law, individuals found guilty of such activities face penalties of up to 10 years in prison or a fine of Shs1 billion, or both. For legal entities, including NGOs and foreign-backed organizations, the fine jumps to Shs2 billion. A stricter provision imposes up to 20 years imprisonment for anyone convicted of intentionally manipulating public opinion on governance.

The Bill also mandates strict financial disclosures: agents must declare the source and purpose of all foreign funding, with annual reporting required. Failure to comply results in fines of up to Shs1.4 million for individuals or Shs2 billion for entities. Any funds obtained in violation of the law may be seized by the state.

Notably, the law excludes Ugandans living abroad or holding dual citizenship from being classified as foreigners. However, it broadly defines ‘foreigners’ to include any non-Ugandan citizen, foreign government, international organization, or entity registered outside Uganda.

The passage sparked outrage from opposition MPs, who accused Speaker Anita Among of bias after limiting minority reports to 35 minutes and banning photocopying of documents. Opposition Leader Joel Ssenyonyi argued the Bill was fundamentally altered after the President publicly disowned it, making it a new piece of legislation rather than a revised version.

Critics, including MP Medard Ssegona, contend the law targets democratic participation under the guise of sovereignty, pointing out that the Constitution already protects the sovereignty of the people—not the state—and that existing laws adequately address foreign interference.

The Bill now awaits presidential assent before becoming law.