Minority Report from the Office of the Leader of Opposition opposing the majority committee’s position on the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026.

This document is a Minority Report from the Office of the Leader of Opposition opposing the majority committee’s position on the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026. It argues that the Bill is being rushed through Parliament without proper procedure, consultation, and adherence to parliamentary rules. The report criticizes the committee process itself, highlighting procedural irregularities, suppression of debate, and lack of impartiality by leadership, which undermined proper scrutiny of the Bill. It also draws on historical and political perspectives to caution that laws can be used as instruments of oppression if not carefully crafted, warning that the current Bill risks reversing democratic progress and shifting power away from the people.

Substantively, the report concludes that the Bill is unconstitutional, vague, and potentially harmful to Uganda’s economy, society, and political system. It highlights issues such as unclear definitions, threats to property rights, restrictions on freedom of expression and civic participation, and duplication of existing laws. The Minority also points out that many stakeholders rejected the Bill, citing risks to investment, financial systems, and everyday economic activities, while the financial implications assessment is considered inadequate. Ultimately, the report recommends that the Bill be withdrawn and returned to the Executive for proper consultation and redrafting, warning that passing it in its current form could lead to serious legal, economic, and governance consequences.

READ MORE: Leader of Opposition minority report of the joint committee on Defence and Legal and Parliamentary Affairs on the Protection of the Sovereignty Bill, 2026