By Our Staff Reporter

Sunday, May 17, 2026
Kampala, Uganda – In a significant move to bolster national autonomy, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has given his assent to the Protection of Sovereignty Act, 2026, officially enacting the legislation after its passage by Parliament.

According to official statements, the Act seeks to defend Uganda’s sovereignty by regulating activities that could undermine national interests while explicitly protecting legitimate foreign investment, trade, humanitarian efforts, and academic collaborations.

It introduces measures such as
• Mandatory registration and oversight for individuals or entities acting as “agents of foreigners.”
• Restrictions on foreign funding used for political activities perceived as contrary to Uganda’s interests.
• Tough penalties, including potential imprisonment and fines, for violations involving unlawful interference.
• Enhanced powers for government agencies to monitor and respond to external destabilization attempts.

The legislation underwent amendments in Parliament to scale back some of the more contentious original proposals, particularly regarding broad impacts on remittances, private investments, and civil society funding.

The bill was initially tabled in April 2026 and passed by Parliament on May 6 following heated debates. Supporters, including government officials, argue it is essential to prevent foreign powers and funded groups from meddling in Uganda’s domestic affairs, referencing historical struggles against colonialism and external influence.

Critics, including civil society organizations and some analysts, have raised concerns about potential restrictions on freedom of expression, association, and civic space. They warn that vague definitions could be used to target opposition voices, NGOs, and independent media.

President Museveni had earlier clarified that the bill’s intent was focused on policy decision-making sovereignty rather than disrupting economic flows like FDI or diaspora remittances.

The enactment of the Protection of Sovereignty Act 2026 comes amid ongoing global debates about foreign influence, national security, and digital sovereignty. It is expected to reshape how international partnerships, funding, and political activities operate in Uganda.

Further details on implementation guidelines and the full text of the Act are anticipated to be published in the Uganda Gazette shortly.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more reactions emerge from political parties, civil society, and the international community.