Politics 7 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda's Sovereignty Bill Sparks Outrage: Opposition Claims Government Plot to Cripple Dissent
Uganda's Parliament has passed the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, granting the state broad powers to restrict political parties, NGOs, and media. Opposition figures decry the law as a calculated move to stifle criticism and control funding. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/sovereignty-bill-how-govt-plotted-to-cripple-opposition--5451034
Parliament has enacted the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, a piece of legislation that opposition leaders and civil society organizations argue grants sweeping powers to the state, effectively targeting critical voices.
The new law introduces stringent provisions regarding the declaration of funding sources and places restrictions on receiving funds from foreign entities. Opposition parties contend that these measures are specifically designed to hinder their ability to mobilize resources for civic duties and campaigns.
Key sections of the bill prohibit activities that promote foreign policies not adopted by the Ugandan Cabinet and forbid interference with electoral processes or government operations, particularly when facilitated by foreign funding. Violators face severe penalties, including hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences.
Political figures like Patrick Oboi Amuriat of the FDC and Alice Alaso of the ANT have voiced strong condemnation, asserting that the bill aims to starve opposition parties and civil society groups of necessary financial support. They argue that development partners and the diaspora community, crucial sources of funding, will be criminalized under the new law.
The National Unity Platform has also denounced the bill, calling for countrywide consultations and deeming it an act of bad governance. Legal challenges are anticipated should the President assent to the law, with opposition parties vowing to fight it in the Constitutional Court.