Uganda's proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, which imposes up to 20 years in prison for promoting 'foreign interests,' has been condemned by opposition figures, human rights groups, and legal experts as a tool to crush dissent. The bill, fast-tracked through parliament ahead of the presidential swearing-in on 12 May, restricts a broad range of people and organizations that work with or receive funding from overseas partners.
Critics Allege Copycat Legislation
Joel Ssenyonyi, Uganda's opposition leader, called the bill a 'copy and paste' of Russian and Chinese laws used to liquidate opposition and civil society. He warned that passing the bill would kill multiparty funding, plunge thousands into poverty, chase away foreign investment, and turn Uganda into an international pariah. Internal affairs state minister Gen David Muhoozi defended the bill as necessary to safeguard national security and social cohesion.
Vague Language and Broad Definitions
The bill's vague language puts advocacy, journalism, public discourse, and private corporations at risk of criminalization. An earlier draft defined Ugandan citizens abroad as foreigners, but that was removed after public outcry and amendments by Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka on 30 April. The bill arrives amid heightened political tension, with opposition figures facing charges linked to foreign support and the suspension of rights groups before the January general election.
Human Rights Concerns
Human Rights Watch urged parliament to reject the bill, saying it threatens fundamental rights. Key provisions include a cap on financial assistance above 400 million Ugandan shillings (£79,000) within 12 months and authorization of premises inspections. The World Bank warned that some provisions could criminalize routine development activities, as Uganda receives hundreds of millions of dollars in external financing for health, education, and civil society.
Economic Impact
Julius Mukunda of the Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group warned that restrictions could reduce inflows, weakening the shilling and slowing economic activity. President Yoweri Museveni dismissed concerns over remittances and foreign investment as 'a lot of noise,' but defended the bill's core mission of sovereignty. Amendments exempted financial institutions supervised by the Central Bank, medical and education facilities, and faith-based organizations.
'Constitutional Coup'
Critics rejected government reassurances, calling the bill a constitutional coup. Anthony Asiimwe, vice-president of the Uganda Law Society, said: 'The bill replaces power belongs to the people with power belongs to government. It adapts the constitution to the fears of those in power. That is legislation against the sovereign people of Uganda – the very definition of a coup d'état.'
