By Peter Luzinda
KAMPALA
Uganda’s opposition parties have announced plans to challenge the newly passed Protection of Sovereignty Bill in the Constitutional Court, escalating political tensions over a law critics say threatens freedoms of expression, association and political activity.
The controversial Bill was passed by Parliament after intense debate and amendments, with government defending it as a key measure aimed at protecting Uganda from foreign interference in political, economic and governance affairs.
However, opposition leaders and civil society organisations argue that the legislation contains broad and vague provisions that could be used to target government critics, journalists, activists and organisations receiving foreign funding.
Leaders from major opposition parties accused the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) of using its parliamentary majority to force through the Bill despite concerns raised by legal experts, business leaders and sections of the public.
The law introduces penalties against individuals and organisations accused of engaging in activities considered harmful to Uganda’s sovereignty or national interests. Earlier proposals within the Bill had generated public controversy after some clauses appeared to classify Ugandans living abroad as foreigners under the legislation before Parliament later amended the provision.
Opposition lawmakers insist that even with the amendments, the final version still violates constitutional rights and duplicates already existing laws governing national security, financial crimes and foreign influence.
Political analysts say the growing resistance against the Bill could trigger a major legal and political confrontation in the coming weeks, especially as the country approaches a sensitive political period.
Civil society organisations and the Uganda Law Society have also expressed concern that the legislation could shrink civic space and discourage independent advocacy work in Uganda.
Meanwhile, supporters of the Bill maintain that foreign actors have increasingly attempted to influence Uganda’s internal affairs through funding political and activist groups, arguing that the legislation is necessary to safeguard national independence.
President Yoweri Museveni is expected to decide whether to assent to the Bill in the coming days. Opposition leaders say once signed into law, they will immediately seek court intervention to block its implementation.
