Nairobi, Kenya — April 19, 2026 The Protection of Sovereignty Bill 2026, approved by Uganda’s Cabinet, has sparked widespread concern among citizens and stakeholders alike.
The proposed legislation, set to be tabled in Parliament, has been met with criticism for its potential to undermine civil society and threaten the economic independence of Ugandans.
The Bill’s Scope and Impact. Article 1 of Uganda’s 1995 Constitution stipulates that sovereignty belongs to the people, yet the draft law appears to shift this power to the government. Critics argue that the law, which has been likened to a “North Korea-style “measure, could criminalize family ties and chase away investors, further exacerbating an already challenging economic climate.
Criminalizing Remittances and Diaspora Relations.
The draft law empowers authorities to label any citizen receiving money from abroad as a potential “foreign agent, “with penalties including up to 20 years in prison or a fine of UGX 2 billion (US$556 million). This has raised concerns among those who rely on remittances, which in 2025 reached $2. 5 billion, significantly contributing to the national economy.
The Role of Civil Society and NGOs.
The Uganda Bankers’ Association and civil society groups have called for the withdrawal or redrafting of the bill, fearing potential economic damage. Critics argue that the legislation could disrupt the flow of remittances, weaken the banking sector, and undermine the work of NGOs and civil society organizations. Government’s Defense and Political Implications.
Government officials defend the bill as a shield against foreign interference.
However, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party’s strong support for the bill raises concerns about its political motivations and the potential silencing of dissent.
The Road Ahead.
As the bill moves through Parliament, its future remains uncertain.
The debate over the Protection of Sovereignty Bill 2026 is likely to be closely monitored by both domestic and international observers, who are watching the potential impact on Uganda’s economy and social fabric.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Panafricanvisions
Source: Pan African Visions
