Uganda is facing growing debate over a proposed “sovereignty protection bill” currently under review in parliament, with critics warning it could significantly restrict financial freedoms and civil liberties.

The draft law is designed, according to its proponents, to protect Uganda from what they describe as excessive foreign interference. However, it has sparked concern among civil society groups and legal experts who argue that its provisions are too broad and open to abuse.

Under the proposed legislation, Ugandans receiving money from the diaspora would be required to obtain approval from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Failure to comply could attract penalties of up to 10 years in prison, while offences classified as “economic sabotage” could carry sentences of up to 20 years.

Speaking on the implications of the bill, Public Policy Analyst and former presidential contender Akello Peace Merisha warned that the legislation risks blurring the line between legitimate dissent and criminal activity.

She said the bill appears to redefine who is considered a “foreign influence,” including Ugandans living abroad, which could have far-reaching consequences for diaspora engagement and civic participation.

“In practice, it becomes very broad and leaves too much discretion to the state to decide what constitutes foreign influence or economic sabotage,” she said, adding that this could affect activists, researchers, and civil society organisations dependent on external funding.

Merisha also drew parallels with other legislation in Uganda that she said has previously limited civic space, arguing that the new bill could further centralise decision-making power within government structures.

Parliament is expected to continue reviewing the proposal as debate intensifies over its potential impact on governance, dissent, and economic freedoms.

— ChannelAfrica–