Politics 28 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Protection of Sovereignty Bill Faces Widespread Backlash in Uganda
Uganda's proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, aimed at regulating foreign funding and agents, has sparked intense opposition from Muslim leaders, opposition parties, civil society, and the World Bank, who argue it threatens religious freedoms, economic stability, and civic operations. While the government defends it as essential for national autonomy, critics demand its withdrawal. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/-sovereignty-bill-meets-stiff-resistance-from-public--5439278
The Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, initially a resolution from the NRM Parliamentary Caucus, has ignited national debate as parliamentary committees review it. Tabled by State Minister for Internal Affairs Gen David Muhoozi, the legislation seeks to curb foreign influence by requiring registration of foreign agents and capping foreign funding at Shs400m annually without ministerial approval.
Violations could lead to 10 years in prison or fines up to Shs1 billion. Muslim leaders, led by Iddi Kasozi, testified that the funding limit hampers mosque construction and maintenance, violating constitutional freedoms of worship including prayers, alms, pilgrimage, and fasting. They also criticized the broad labelling of religious groups as foreign agents.
National Unity Platform (NUP) Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya and Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi condemned the bill, calling it economic sabotage that blocks diaspora funding and duplicates existing laws amid USAID withdrawal impacts. UPC officials labelled it discriminatory, dividing locals from expatriates.
Civil society voices like Yonna Wanjala of Civic Advisory Hub warned of existential threats to NGOs due to expansive foreigner definitions. Lawyer Philip Karugaba highlighted excessive ministerial powers over civic activities. The World Bank raised concerns over criminalizing policy dialogues and meetings.
Government defends the bill as filling legislative gaps in sovereignty protection, enhancing transparency without undermining international ties. Parliament’s Chris Obore welcomed feedback, assuring accommodations for partners like the World Bank. One former MP supported it as constitutional operationalization.
Critics fear it will drive capital flight, cripple businesses, and isolate Uganda economically.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)