THE PROTECTION OF SOVEREIGNTY ACT

The “Protection of Sovereignty Act, 2026” is a proposed Ugandan law designed to protect the sovereignty, national interests, and governance systems of Uganda from foreign influence and interference. The Act establishes a framework for regulating “agents of foreigners,” defined as individuals or organizations acting on behalf of foreign entities in political or governance-related activities. It prohibits foreign interference in electoral processes, government operations, policy development, and economic stability while requiring agents of foreigners to register with the Ministry responsible for internal affairs. The law also outlines strict penalties for activities considered disruptive, including promoting foreign policies not approved by Cabinet, influencing elections, interfering with government operations, or engaging in economic sabotage.

The Act further regulates foreign funding by requiring declarations of financial support received from foreign entities and imposing restrictions on undisclosed funding. It grants the Government powers to inspect, monitor, suspend, or revoke registrations of foreign agents and to enforce compliance through fines, imprisonment, and forfeiture of funds. While the law aims to strengthen national security, accountability, and protection of Uganda’s political independence, it also raises significant concerns regarding civic freedoms, civil society operations, political participation, and freedom of expression due to its broad definitions of “political activities” and “disruptive activities.” Overall, the legislation seeks to centralize oversight of foreign involvement in Uganda’s political and governance affairs while emphasizing the protection of national sovereignty and public order.

READ MORE: The protection of the sovereignty Act