Uganda’s ‘Sovereignty Bill’ Sparks Outcry

Uganda’s proposed “Protection of Sovereignty Bill” has drawn fierce criticism from rights groups, journalists, and businesses, who warn it replicates Russia’s “foreign agents” law to silence dissent. The draft legislation criminalizes promoting “foreign interests” and allows anyone receiving funds from abroad to be labeled a “foreign agent,” with penalties of up to 20 years in prison. Rights advocates say the bill even defines Ugandans abroad as “foreigners,” threatening diaspora remittances and breaching the constitution. Civil society, opposition figures, and even ruling party members have condemned the measure, while Human Rights Watch argues it uses vague language to target critics. President Museveni has defended restricting foreign political influence but admitted the text must be revised to avoid harming capital flows. The controversy highlights growing authoritarianism under Museveni’s four‑decade rule and the risks posed to Uganda’s economy and democratic space.

Source: Newstimehub