A section of leaders in Kabale District has expressed mixed reactions following the passage of the Protection of Sovereignty Act, 2026.
The Parliament of Uganda passed the bill after nearly a month of public debate, political tension, and scrutiny over its implications for governance, civil liberties, and the country’s economic environment.
The law, approved during the May 5 plenary sitting chaired by Speaker Anita Among, introduces sweeping restrictions on individuals and entities classified as “agents of foreign principals,” while imposing strict disclosure and compliance requirements.
Under the new legislation, supervised institutions are prohibited from processing payments to an agent of a foreign principal unless the recipient declares the source of funds and provides proof of such declaration. Violations attract penalties of up to UGX 2 billion for companies and UGX 1 billion for individuals, as well as imprisonment of up to 10 years.
However, some political leaders in Kabale have criticized the law, arguing it may undermine civic freedoms and political activity.
The Speaker of the People’s Front for Freedom-PFF in Kabale, Gideon Tumwesigye, said the bill is aimed at suppressing civic space, particularly targeting the media, non-governmental organizations, and opposition political parties.
He argued that the law will restrict access to foreign support despite Uganda operating in a globalized environment, adding that citizens must reflect on their political choices.
CUE IN TUMWESIGYE……ON BILL……RR/ENG//
The PFF Youth Chairman in Kabale District, Kimonge Conrad Tumuheirwe, who also serves as Bugongi Ward LCIV Councillor-elect, said that after the Constitutional Court nullified the Public Order Management Act, government appears to be seeking alternative laws to control political activities.
He warned that citizens are prepared to protest against what he described as violations of constitutional rights.
CUE IN KIMONGE……ON BILL……RR/ENG//
The Kabale District National Unity Platform-NUP spokesperson, Derrick Katebire Mugyesera, said he expected NRM Members of Parliament to oppose what he termed a harmful law, but instead accused them of “selling their conscience.”
He argued that the legislation is intended to help President Museveni consolidate power by limiting dissent and opposition voices calling for political change.
CUE IN KATEBIRE……ON BILL……RR/ENG//
However, Kabale NRM spokesperson Edison Turyahabwa defended the law, saying it is normal for new legislation to face criticism but government must enact policies to regulate society.
He questioned why some individuals are opposed to the bill if the funds they receive from foreign sources are legitimate and intended for national development.
CUE IN TURYAHABWA…..ON BILL………RR/ENG//
