By Vincent Emong
KAMPALA — A proposed sovereignty bill has triggered strong criticism from civil society actors, with activists warning that it could undermine citizens’ rights, deepen divisions, and harm Uganda’s economy.
Leading the criticism, Benson Ekwee, Executive Director of Public Affairs Center Uganda, described the bill as “dangerous” and misleading in its intent.
“It is very unfortunate that a government we elected just a few months ago is attempting to come up with a very dangerous law,” Ekwee said. “A law that pretends to be protecting sovereignty when actually it is hurting sovereignty.”
Ekwee explained that sovereignty is anchored on three key pillars: territorial integrity, citizenship, and self-determination.
“Our Constitution already guarantees territorial integrity,” he said. “Sovereignty is also about the people, because all power belongs to them.”
He added that self-determination allows citizens to decide how they are governed, stressing that these principles are already well established under Uganda’s legal framework.
However, Ekwee warned that the proposed bill threatens these foundations, particularly by introducing provisions that could label some Ugandans as “foreign agents.”
“If you are declared a foreign agent, you are not supposed to influence public policy, elections, or even engage with government,” he said. “If you do, it becomes a criminal offense, with penalties of up to 20 years in prison.”
He argued that the definition of a “foreign agent” in the bill is too broad and could affect ordinary citizens, including those working for multinational companies, banks, or international organizations.
“This bill could even split families. Someone with a relative working abroad could be forced to register as a foreign agent just to maintain that relationship,” Ekwee warned.
Santos Osekeny, Chairperson of NGOs in Bukedea District, echoed the concerns, saying the bill risks undermining societal values.
“The bill has disturbed the minds of Ugandans and threatens to erode our values. It should be withdrawn,” Osekeny said.
James Oluka, Executive Director of Humanity Forum Uganda, raised concerns about potential economic impacts, warning that the legislation could lead to job losses.
“This bill will increase unemployment, especially among those whose work depends on partnerships with foreign organizations,” Oluka said.
As debate around the bill intensifies, activists are calling for its withdrawal, arguing that instead of strengthening sovereignty, it could weaken citizens’ freedoms, disrupt livelihoods, and create unnecessary divisions within society.
The proposed legislation continues to draw mixed reactions, with stakeholders urging broader consultation before any final decision is made.
