Uganda Government Introduces Protection of Sovereignty Bill Targeting Foreign Influence

The Ugandan government presented the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, in Parliament on April 15, 2026. State Minister for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi, tabled the legislation, which Speaker Anita Among referred to the Defence and Internal Affairs, and Legal and Parliamentary Affairs committees for review.

The bill aims to protect national sovereignty by regulating interactions with foreigners. Ugandans or entities soliciting, receiving, or using foreign assistance over Shs400 million annually without ministerial approval face up to 20 years in prison and Shs2 billion fines. Companies risk Shs4 billion penalties for similar violations.

Key provisions ban unregistered agents—defined as anyone acting under foreign direction, funding, or control—from promoting foreign interests. This includes organizing events pushing unapproved foreign policies or interfering in elections. Foreigners would be prohibited from funding or partnering with Ugandans to advance their agendas.

The Internal Affairs Minister would oversee registration of such agents, with mandatory declarations of foreign funds under anti-money laundering rules. Opposition Leader Joel Ssenyonyi slammed the bill, saying it dodges accountability by targeting opposition and civil society groups.

Some MPs, including Patrick Nsamba Oshabe and Theodore Ssekikubo, protested the tabling without physical copies, though the Speaker noted digital access.

Critics warn the law could ensnare everyday remittances or community aid, potentially harming citizens, the economy, and democracy.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)