Politics 18 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kigezi NGOs Demand MPs Consult Them on Controversial Sovereignty Bill
NGO leaders and opposition figures from Uganda's Kigezi sub-region have urged local MPs to engage them on the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, warning it undermines the 1995 Constitution and threatens civil society, media, and development funding. They plan radio shows and community meetings to educate the public on its potential harms. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kigezi-ngos-to-area-mps-you-must-engage-us-on-sovereignty-bill--5428546
NGO founders, opposition members, and activists from Uganda’s Kigezi sub-region met in Kabale on April 18, 2026, organized by Kick Corruption Out of Uganda. They resolved to directly engage their area MPs over the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, citing problematic provisions on foreign agents and cooperation.
The Bill, tabled in Parliament on April 15 by State Minister for Internal Affairs Gen. David Muhoozi, was referred by Speaker Anita Among to committees on Defence, Internal Affairs, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs for review.
Robert Kakuru Byamugisha, Executive Director of Kick Corruption Out of Uganda, criticized the Bill’s broad definitions, arguing it targets economic, political, social, and cultural activities. He warned it would cripple development agencies, CSOs, media, and private entities reliant on external funding, leading to economic fallout.
Albert Taremwa of Local Sustainable Communities Organization (LOSCO) echoed this, stating Uganda’s existing laws like anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism acts suffice. He accused the Bill of eroding constitutional rights to expression, civic participation, and equality, while restricting foreign funding could shrink GDP, cause job losses, and cut tax revenue.
Critics including UPC’s Obed Habasa called it dictatorial and harmful to international ties, urging MPs to reject it. FIDA-Uganda’s Jennifer Atuheire highlighted risks to free legal services for vulnerable groups, and PFfF’s Gideon Tumwesigye suggested peaceful protests, noting conflicts with partners like WHO and UNICEF.
Participants plan radio talk shows and community forums to inform the public about the Bill’s implications if enacted.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)