Gideon Nova Kwikiriza. Photo/X
Questions are emerging over the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, after media personality Gideon Nova Kwikiriza raised concern about how the proposed law categorises Ugandans living abroad.
Kwikiriza questioned provisions that appear to describe Ugandans in foreign countries in a manner that could be interpreted as stripping or altering their national status.
“Something has been bothering me about the Protection of sovereignty bill. It refers to an Ugandan living in a foreign country as a FOREIGNER,” he said.
He sought clarity on what this would mean for citizens in the diaspora who frequently return home or move between countries.
“My question is; what happens if the Ugandan who is now regarded as a foreigner wishes to come back to Uganda? Do they now process for citizenship? Are they treated as foreigners even on their motherland?” he posed.
He further questioned whether citizenship status would depend on location or remain constant regardless of residence.
“What if they stay in Uganda for some time and then stay in the other country for some time? Do they keep the ‘foreigner’ status or it changes once they are in or out of the country?” he added.
The remarks come as the bill continues to undergo scrutiny in Parliament, where it has already sparked debate over its scope and definitions.
The proposed legislation seeks to regulate foreign influence in Uganda, including funding and activities linked to individuals or organisations considered to be acting on behalf of external interests.