Uganda tables protection of sovereignty bill to regulate foreign influence
The Government of Uganda has introduced the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, a wide-ranging piece of legislation aimed at reinforcing national independence, improving transparency around foreign-linked activities, and safeguarding the country’s democratic and economic systems.
The Bill is anchored in the constitutional principle that sovereignty belongs to the people of Uganda. Government officials say it establishes a clear legal framework for engagement with foreign partners while ensuring that national decision-making remains in Ugandan hands.
Focus on independence and regional cooperation
The proposed law promotes a foreign policy based on peaceful coexistence, non-alignment, and Pan-African cooperation. It mandates state institutions to advance regional integration and cultural cooperation, positioning Uganda as an active participant in Africa’s collective development while protecting against external interference.
Broad definitions to ensure oversight
The Bill adopts expansive definitions to ensure comprehensive coverage. A “foreigner” includes not only non-citizens and foreign governments, but also international organizations, Ugandans living abroad, and any individual or entity designated by the Minister through statutory instrument.
An “agent of a foreigner” is defined as any person or organization supervised, directed, financed, or subsidized by a foreigner. This includes employees, representatives, or individuals acting at the request or direction of foreign entities.
Structured registration process
Under the Bill, all agents of foreigners are required to register with the authorities. Applications must include detailed personal and organizational information, governing documents, lists of employees, descriptions of activities, and disclosures of income or items of value received in the 60 days prior to application.
Authorities are also empowered to assess suitability, including whether applicants have adequate facilities and capacity to responsibly carry out their activities.
Role of the peace and security department
Administration of the law falls under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, with implementation handled by a dedicated peace and security department. The department is authorized to inspect registered premises at reasonable times, request relevant information, and coordinate with revenue, customs, immigration, and transport authorities on matters involving foreign funding.
Financial transparency and banking oversight
The Bill places specific obligations on banks and money transfer institutions. These institutions may not release funds to an agent of a foreigner unless the agent has declared the source of the funds and obtained written authorization from the Minister.
Financial institutions are also required to submit monthly reports on transfers involving foreign agents. Failure to comply attracts substantial civil penalties.
Protecting elections and the economy
To safeguard democratic processes, the Bill prohibits foreign agents from influencing how Ugandans decide to be governed. It also defines “economic sabotage” as acts or publications intended to weaken or destabilize the country’s economic system or cause disruption and instability.
Penalties for serious offenses are significant. Interference with elections or government operations can attract fines of up to 100,000 currency points or imprisonment of up to 20 years. The Bill specifies that one currency point is equivalent to 20,000 Ugandan shillings, placing the maximum fine at 2 billion shillings.
As the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026 moves through parliamentary debate in Kampala, government officials say the legislation reflects a commitment to transparency, accountability, and national pride, while maintaining constructive engagement with international partners.
