Civil society organizations have called on Parliament to reject the proposed Protection and Sovereignty Bill, 2026, warning that it is harmful and not introduced in good faith.
The appeal was presented by the Center for Constitutional Governance and the Forum for Women in Democracy during a session before the joint committees on Legal Affairs, Defence, and Internal Affairs, which are currently scrutinizing the bill.
Philip Karugaba, a legal officer with the Center for Constitutional Governance, told legislators that the proposed law could significantly restrict lawyers and other professionals from representing foreign clients.
He warned that such work might be interpreted as advancing foreign interests, potentially limiting professional practice.
Karugaba further argued that provisions requiring individuals to declare funds received from abroad would violate the right to privacy, as they would compel recipients to disclose how the funds are used.
Meanwhile, Patricia Munabi Babiha of the Forum for Women in Democracy said consultations conducted across the country reveal widespread public opposition to the bill. She urged Parliament to reject the proposed legislation in its entirety.
The bill remains under review by the joint committee, with more stakeholder submissions expected before a final recommendation is made.
By Charles Katabalwa
24th April 2026
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