The Uganda People’s Congress has called for the withdrawal of the controversial Sovereignty Bill, warning that its provisions risk undermining constitutional freedoms and deepening divisions across the country.
UPC Secretary General Fred Ebil said the proposed legislation erodes rights guaranteed under the Constitution of Uganda and comes at a politically sensitive time.
“Just like we are today in a country where we are so politically divided and coming from fresh elections with economic activities disrupted… we should try to make laws which are not discriminatory,” Ebil said.
UPC raised particular concern over Clause 22(1), which requires prior approval from the Internal Affairs minister for any foreign financial or material support exceeding 20,000 currency points, equivalent to about Shs400 million.
Party officials argued that the provision is unconstitutional, saying it imposes disproportionate restrictions on economic freedoms, including those protected under Article 40 of the Constitution.
Another party official, Muzeyi, said the clause introduces an administrative bottleneck by granting the minister broad discretionary powers without clear timelines for decision-making.
He warned that this could delay or block access to foreign capital for businesses and individuals, potentially harming Uganda’s investment climate.
UPC also noted that foreign funding for political organisations is already regulated under the Political Parties and Organisations Act, making the proposed extension of such controls to individuals and businesses unnecessary.
The bill, tabled in Parliament on April 15, 2026 by the State Minister for Internal Affairs, has attracted criticism from opposition groups, who accuse the ruling National Resistance Movement of introducing legislation aimed at curbing civil and economic freedoms.
UPC warned that if passed in its current form, the law could undermine economic growth and contradict the state’s obligation to promote development.
The party has urged lawmakers to reconsider the bill’s provisions and withdraw it for further review.