Ugandan lawmakers are rapidly advancing a contentious bill that critics argue is an alarming step toward authoritarianism, echoing similar measures seen in Russia and China. The proposed legislation, known as the Protection of Sovereignty Bill 2026, seeks to impose severe penalties of up to 20 years in prison for promoting what it terms 'foreign interests'. This sweeping measure has drawn fierce backlash from opposition leaders, human rights groups, and legal experts, who contend it aims to suffocate dissent and restrict civil society.
Severe Penalties and Broad Restrictions
Internal Affairs State Minister Gen David Muhoozi introduced the bill, emphasizing its intent to fortify the nation against foreign influences that threaten national security, economic stability, and social cohesion. The bill's provisions include stringent regulations on organizations and individuals receiving foreign funding, effectively criminalizing many forms of legitimate political opposition and advocacy. Critics, including opposition leader Joel Ssenyonyi, have condemned the legislation as a direct copy of laws utilized by authoritarian regimes to dismantle dissent and suppress civil society. Originally reported by The Guardian.
"This law is a copy and paste of Russian and Chinese laws adopted to liquidate opposition and civil society organisations," Ssenyonyi stated emphatically. He warned that the passage of this bill could devastate funding for multiparty political activities, increase poverty levels for thousands, deter foreign investment, and ultimately isolate Uganda on the international stage.
Vague Language Targets Civil Society
The bill's vague language raises concerns about its broad applicability, potentially criminalizing a wide array of activities linked to advocacy, journalism, and public discourse. The initial draft even classified Ugandan citizens living abroad as 'foreigners', a definition that was later amended following public outcry. Legal experts argue that such ambiguity allows for arbitrary enforcement, targeting anyone involved in civic engagement.
Asuman Kiyingi, a former government minister, criticized the bill as an effort to further restrict legitimate protests and dissent. "This is not regulation; it is encirclement," he remarked. Kiyingi pointed out that the government has already leveraged the Public Order Management Act to suppress public gatherings, and this new bill seeks to extend that control into the financial realm, cutting off the resources necessary for civic mobilization.
International Concerns Over Funding Restrictions
The proposed legislation includes significant restrictions on financial assistance, capping it at 400 million Ugandan shillings (approximately Ā£79,000) over any 12-month period. This limitation poses severe implications for civil society organizations, which rely heavily on foreign funding for various initiatives, including health and education programs.
On April 23, the World Bank expressed alarm in a letter to parliament, cautioning that certain provisions could criminalize routine development activities. "By classifying international organizations as 'foreigners' without qualification, the bill subjects them to all of its substantive restrictions.. and criminal penalties," the letter warned. Given Uganda's dependence on foreign aid, which supports critical sectors, the financial implications of the bill could ripple across the economy, as highlighted by Julius Mukunda of the Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group.
Presidential Support and Public Backlash
Despite the backlash, President Yoweri Museveni has defended the bill, disMissing concerns about its impact on remittances and foreign investment as mere "noise." He reiterated the government's stance on sovereignty, stating, "Independence means the right to make our own decisions if necessary and learn from them. Sovereignty means please leave us alone. Do not fund groups to influence our decisions as a country." Museveni's remarks come on the heels of heightened political Tensions, with opposition figures facing prosecution related to allegations of foreign support.
In an attempt to quell public dissent, the attorney general has proposed amendments to exempt certain financial institutions, medical and education facilities, and faith-based organizations from the bill's stringent restrictions. However, the overarching fear remains that the core intent of the legislation is to undermine independent civic engagement and stifle dissenting voices.
As the debate around the Protection of Sovereignty Bill 2026 continues, Uganda stands at a crossroads. The path chosen in the coming weeks could significantly impact the country's democratic fabric and its relations with the international community.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.