law 20 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Lawyers caution government on accessing private bank accounts
Legal experts are raising alarms about potential government overreach in accessing private bank accounts, citing recent court rulings and the implications for financial privacy. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lawyers-warn-govt-on-push-to-access-private-bank-accounts-5638852
Legal practitioners have cautioned the Ugandan government against broad attempts to access citizens’ private bank account information, emphasizing the critical importance of financial privacy and due process. The concerns have resurfaced following ongoing discussions and potential legislative moves that could grant authorities wider access to banking data.
This push for greater access comes at a time when the boundaries of financial information disclosure are being actively debated. Lawyers argue that while legitimate reasons for accessing such information may exist, such as in cases of criminal investigations or tax evasion, these powers must be tightly regulated to prevent abuse.
Recent legal challenges, including a significant Constitutional Court ruling in March 2023 concerning the Uganda Revenue Authority’s (URA) demands for banking information, have underscored the judiciary’s role in protecting privacy rights. This ruling highlighted the need for clear legal frameworks and judicial oversight before private financial data can be accessed.
Experts stress that unfettered access could erode public trust in the financial sector and potentially stifle economic activity. They advocate for a balanced approach, ensuring that any measures to access bank accounts are specific, proportionate, and subject to rigorous judicial authorization, thereby upholding both national security interests and individual liberties.