The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has raised alarm over the potential impact of the Protection of Sovereignty Act, 2026, warning that the law could criminalise journalists, civil society organisations, diaspora remittances, and ordinary Ugandans engaged in international partnerships.
Speaking during a press conference, ULS Vice President Asiimwe Anthony said the law contains loosely defined provisions that could expose citizens to prosecution for activities previously considered lawful.
“A journalist who files a story for an international wire service or simply receives instructions from a foreign editor may now risk being investigated or prosecuted,” he warned.
The Uganda Law Society also expressed concern that NGOs implementing donor-funded health, education, and humanitarian programmes could face closure, with their directors potentially prosecuted under accusations of acting as foreign agents.
The society further warned that ordinary Ugandans receiving financial support from relatives abroad could also be drawn into investigations under the new law.
“A son in London sending school fees to his sister in Uganda could potentially be dragged into a foreign agent inquiry,” Asiimwe said.
Religious leaders, teachers, youth groups, and legal professionals engaged in international partnerships were also highlighted as being at risk under the legislation.
ULS argues that such provisions are likely to create fear and self-censorship, ultimately shrinking civic space and undermining constitutional freedoms.
The legal body says it is preparing a constitutional challenge against the law while rallying support through its newly established Sovereignty Defense Fund.