Human rights defender and lawyer Sarah Bireete has intensified Uganda’s ongoing debate on dual citizenship, arguing that individuals who have pledged allegiance to other countries should not hold public office.
Her remarks come amid growing scrutiny following President Yoweri Museveni’s nomination of several dual citizens to Cabinet positions, a move that has triggered legal and political questions.
In a statement, Bireete asserted that dual citizens are constitutionally barred from serving in government, describing them as conflicted in loyalty.
“People who denounce Uganda on oath do not deserve to serve in Cabinet or any government positions,” she said.
She cited the Constitution, the Citizenship and Immigration Control Act, and the Protection of Sovereignty Act as legal frameworks that, in her view, prohibit such appointments.
Bireete further argued that dual citizens, even after renouncing foreign nationality, remain compromised.
“Dual citizens are both foreigners and agents of foreigners. Even when they renounce citizenship, they remain encumbered as agents of foreigners,” she added, raising concerns about national security and policy influence.
Her comments also extended to the recently passed sovereignty law, which has itself drawn criticism from sections of the public and civil society.
According to Bireete, the legislation was enacted despite opposition from citizens and contains provisions she considers unconstitutional.
“Many citizens spoke against the enactment of this law but the 11th Parliament overwhelmingly voted for it with about 80 percent changes. The law remains bad with unconstitutional sections,” she said.
She attributed the law’s passage to strong backing from the Executive and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), and called on the public to take action.
“I wish to invite all citizens to scrutinize occupants of government offices with dual citizenship and push for their dismissal for the protection of our sovereignty,” Bireete urged.
The debate has exposed divisions among legal experts and political actors, with some defending dual citizenship as a global reality that can benefit governance, while critics warn of divided allegiance.