Concerns are rising within Uganda’s media circles after journalist Kungu Al-Mahadi Adam warned that the proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026 could significantly undermine press freedom, particularly through provisions he says risk criminalising legitimate reporting.
Speaking during a television show he moderated this week, Kungu raised alarm over Clause 13 of the bill, which introduces the offence of “economic sabotage.”
The clause states that any person who publishes information or engages in activities that weaken or damage the country’s economic system, or cause disruption and instability, could face criminal liability upon conviction.
Kungu argued that while the bill is framed as a tool to safeguard national sovereignty, its language—especially in Clause 13—is broad, vague, and highly subjective, creating room for wide interpretation by authorities.
He noted that this lack of clarity places journalists at risk, even when reporting verified facts in the public interest.
He illustrated the potential implications with practical examples. In one scenario, a journalist reporting on an attack or abduction of foreign tourists in a national park could be accused of harming the tourism sector, a key pillar of Uganda’s economy.
Despite the report being factual and necessary, such coverage could be interpreted as causing economic disruption under the proposed law.
Similarly, routine reporting on poor infrastructure—such as impassable roads affecting trade routes—could fall within the scope of economic sabotage if authorities deem it damaging to investor confidence or economic viability.
Kungu noted that such stories are standard public interest journalism, yet the bill could recast them as criminal acts.
The concerns extend further to coverage of sensitive economic issues such as rising electricity tariffs, inflation, or insecurity.
By exposing these challenges, journalists could be accused of undermining confidence in the economy, effectively placing them at risk of prosecution.
“This provision has the potential not only to lead to convictions for many, but also to capture and criminalise legitimate journalism,” Kungu said, urging fellow journalists to closely scrutinise the bill and its implications.
Media observers warn that the likely outcome of such a legal framework would be increased self-censorship. Faced with the threat of legal consequences, reporters may avoid publishing critical stories, particularly those that portray the economy negatively.
Investigative journalism, which often focuses on exposing systemic weaknesses, could decline.
The broader Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026 seeks to regulate foreign influence in Uganda’s political and economic affairs.
However, critics argue that its sweeping provisions could extend beyond that objective, affecting civil liberties, including freedom of expression and access to information.
Kungu’s remarks add to growing debate around the bill, which has drawn scrutiny from civil society groups and media stakeholders. For journalists, the central concern remains whether they will be able to carry out their role without fear.