After amendments, Uganda passes controversial sovereignty protection law

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

The Ugandan parliament passed a new law called the "Sovereignty Protection Act," a move that sparked widespread controversy both domestically and internationally, despite last-minute amendments. The last To soften some of its controversial clauses.

According to media reports, the law was passed late last night, following heated debates between legislators Regarding its political and economic repercussions.

Amendments to ease restrictions

The amendments included removing a clause that classified Ugandans living abroad as ”foreigners,” as well as exempting specific institutions such as medical, academic and religious organizations from restrictions on receiving foreign funding, in an attempt to contain growing criticism.

The law criminalizes acts deemed to promote “foreign interests against Uganda’s interests,” and grants authorities the power to classify individuals or entities receiving foreign funding as “foreign agents.” Under these provisions, those convicted could face prison sentences of up to 20 years.

Protection of national sovereignty

For her part, Speaker of Parliament Anita Amonj described the law as “historic,” considering it a necessary step to protect national sovereignty.

The bill's sponsor also stressed that its aim is to protect Uganda's autonomy and prevent any external interference in internal affairs, especially with regard to political activities linked to foreign entities.

In contrast, the law faced sharp criticism from human rights organizations, most notably Human Rights Watch, which warned that its wording was “vague and broad” and could be used to target activists and civil society organizations.

The organization noted that the law could shrink civic space in the country, which already faces frequent accusations of restricting freedoms.

The opposition warns of the repercussions

Opposition MP Gilbert Olania warned that the new legislation could harm the economy and create a "punitive" legal environment for investors and organizations, but his calls to withdraw the bill went unanswered in parliament.

The passage of the law comes as President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power for nearly four decades, continues to rule, amid repeated accusations that his government is pursuing dangerous policies and suppressing the opposition, adding further sensitivity to the new legislative move.