Museveni signs Sovereignty law, tightens control on foreign funding and external influence
Museveni said the legislation which parliament passed recently under the stewardship of former Speaker Anita Among, is intended to safeguard the sovereignty of the people of Uganda and strengthen the country’s ability to defend itself against external interference in governance, security and national decision-making
KAMPALA, May 18, 2026 — President Yoweri Museveni has signed into law the controversial Protection of Sovereignty Act, 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening government oversight of foreign funding, foreign agents and activities considered a threat to Uganda’s national interests and independence.
The law, assented to on Saturday evening, is expected to significantly affect the operations of organisations, individuals and entities in Uganda receiving support from foreign governments, donors, agencies and other institutions.
Museveni said the legislation which parliament passed recently under the stewardship of the now embattled former Speaker Anita Among, is intended to safeguard the sovereignty of the people of Uganda and strengthen the country’s ability to defend itself against external interference in governance, security and national decision-making.
Museveni said the law designates the department responsible for peace and security under the Ministry of Internal Affairs as the implementing authority. It also introduces the registration and regulation of agents of foreign entities operating in Uganda.
He further noted that the law would regulate funding and other forms of assistance provided to such agents as part of efforts to protect Uganda’s sovereignty and constitutional order.
The signing of the legislation comes amid growing government accusations that some foreign-backed organisations and actors are attempting to influence Uganda’s politics, governance systems and security environment under the guise of civil society and democracy promotion activities.
Supporters of the legislation within government argue that Uganda, as a sovereign state, has the right to monitor foreign influence and ensure transparency among organisations and individuals receiving external funding.
“With the presidential assent, the Bill now becomes law and will guide implementation by the relevant state institutions in line with existing legal and policy frameworks,” Museveni said.
The new legislation will require individuals and organisations linked to foreign entities to disclose their funding arrangements, operational activities and affiliations. Authorities will also be empowered to investigate activities suspected of undermining national sovereignty, public order or state security.
Museveni said the law is expected to strengthen Uganda’s capacity to safeguard its independence in national decision-making processes while ensuring governance and development priorities remain rooted in national interests.
He added that the legislation is also intended to improve coordination among state institutions and enhance accountability and orderly governance.
“It is also anticipated to improve clarity in the management of state authority, enhance institutional coordination, and support ongoing efforts to promote stability, accountability and orderly governance,” Museveni said.
During parliamentary discussions, some critics argued that certain provisions of the law could grant excessive powers to security agencies and regulators, potentially affecting NGOs, advocacy groups and media organisations operating with international support.
Government officials have repeatedly defended the legislation, insisting that it is not intended to suppress legitimate activities but rather to protect Uganda’s sovereignty and ensure transparency in foreign engagements.
Museveni also linked the law to Uganda’s broader economic and governance agenda, saying it would help safeguard the country’s policy independence as Uganda continues to engage with regional and international partners.
“In addition, the law is seen as complementing Uganda’s broader development agenda, particularly in advancing economic transformation, improving public sector efficiency, and safeguarding national policy space,” Museveni said.
The Protection of Sovereignty Act now awaits operational regulations and implementation guidelines from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and other relevant government agencies.
https://thecooperator.news/house-passes-sovereignty-bill-after-heated-debate/
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