KAMPALA, Uganda — On May 5, 2026, Uganda’s Parliament adopted significant amendments to the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, in a move to address concerns over its original form.
The revised Bill, which had sparked considerable public interest and debate, was scrutinized during a packed plenary session led by Speaker Anita Among. Minister of State for Internal Affairs, Hon. David Muhoozi, presented the motion, emphasizing the need to counter challenges that threaten Uganda’s self-governance.
The Chairperson of the Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs, Hon. Wilson Kajwengye, highlighted the extensive consultations involving over 200 stakeholders, which informed the amendments.
The amendments were designed to narrow the Bill’s scope, removing contentious provisions and introducing safeguards to align the law with the Constitution and existing regulatory frameworks.
The law now targets only agents of foreigners, specifically in influence — related activities, such as political processes and public decision-making, excluding Ugandan citizens living abroad. Parliament also revised key definitions, narrowing the meaning of “foreigner “and excluding individuals or entities acting on behalf of foreign interests.
The amendments scaled back the minister’s powers, replacing broad discretionary authority with more structured, rules-based mechanisms.
In a significant policy shift, the Bill replaced blanket ministerial approval requirements with a declaration regime for foreign funding. This move was intended to avoid disrupting financial flows and economic activity.
The law introduces wide — ranging exemptions to protect key sectors, including financial institutions, academic and research bodies, health facilities, and individuals receiving funds for legitimate commercial or domestic purposes.
The amendments also revised criminal provisions, introducing clearer definitions of offences and requiring proof of intent, while reducing penalties. Several controversial provisions, such as mandatory health examinations for applicants and inspection powers without court orders, were removed. Timelines and procedural safeguards were introduced to ensure transparency and adherence to natural justice.
Despite the amendments, several Members of Parliament, including Hon. Jonathan Odur and Hon. Wilfred Niwagaba, tabled dissenting reports, opposing the Bill.
Odur criticized the process, suggesting that the amendments were proposed by the Attorney General rather than the originator of the Bill. Niwagaba argued that the Bill criminalizes free speech and infringes on constitutional rights.
The passage of the amended Sovereignty Bill reflects the Parliament’s efforts to balance national security concerns with the protection of civil liberties and constitutional rights.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: africa
Source: Editor
