Activist and journalist Agather Atuhaire has sharply criticised Uganda’s proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, dismissing it as flawed legislation that she says could be used to target dissent rather than protect national interests.
In a reaction, Atuhaire said she has deliberately stayed silent on the bill for some time due to what she described as deep opposition to its content, its drafters, and its promoters.
“One of the reasons I have not said anything about the so called protection of sovereignty bill is because I despise it, I despise the people that drafted it, I despise those promoting it and I despise those that will pass such ridiculousness into law,” she said.
The bill, currently before Parliament, seeks to regulate foreign influence by controlling funding flows, registering individuals and organisations with foreign links, and introducing penalties for non-compliance.
It has been presented by its proponents as a measure to safeguard Uganda’s sovereignty and reduce external interference in domestic affairs.
But Atuhaire argues that the real impact of the law will not be on its stated targets. Instead, she says it could end up affecting those who introduce and support it.
“It’s also because I know for a fact that it will not hurt those it is targeting but those behind it the most,” she said, adding that the consequences could eventually turn against its authors.
Her remarks come as debate over the bill intensifies, particularly over provisions that critics say give wide discretionary powers to government officials.
The legislation reportedly defines a “foreign agent” in broad terms, including “anyone the minister declares one,” and allows regulation of “any other activity declared by the minister.”
Critics say such wording opens the door to selective enforcement and could be used to restrict individuals or organisations based on their political positions.
Quoting a senior citizen, Atuhaire added: “The regime will soon cut off its nose to spite the face,” suggesting the law could ultimately harm the system it is meant to protect.
The bill remains under committee review in Parliament, where stakeholders continue to present submissions.
Government officials maintain that it is necessary to protect Uganda from external influence and safeguard national sovereignty.
The proposed legislation continues to draw divided reactions, with supporters backing tighter controls on foreign-linked activity while opponents warn of its potential impact on civil liberties and political expression