His stance comes at a time criticism continues to mount from civil society, legal experts and opposition figures over the bill that seeks to safeguard national interests from covert external interference.
In a statement released Thursday, the President said the Bill is rooted in Africa’s long struggle against foreign domination and is intended to protect Uganda’s independence in decision-making.
“The Bill I initiated was about what we fought for and what the whole of Africa fought for… sovereignty in policy decision-making,” Mr Museveni said.
“Sovereignty means: please leave us alone so that we make our own decisions.” he added.
The Bill has sparked intense debate, with opposition groups and civic actors having raised alarm over its potential impact on civil liberties.
Similarly, the Uganda Law Society warned of a possible “constitutional crisis” if the Bill is passed in its current form, citing its wide scope and enforcement provisions.
However, Mr Museveni dismissed such concerns, arguing that the legislation is not about repression but about protecting national autonomy from external manipulation.
“To all and sundry, please do not interfere by word, action or money in that effort,” he said.
The Bill, seeks to regulate individuals and organisations deemed “agents of foreign interests,” with penalties that have drawn scrutiny from legal and financial sectors.
Critics have argued that these provisions could be used to restrict civic space, particularly for organisations involved in governance and human rights advocacy.
Some political commentators have gone further, suggesting the Bill carries political undertones.
Former legislator Odonga Otto, recently said the proposal “just fell short of being named Bobi Wine,” implying it targets dissenting voices.
Mr Museveni, however, framed the legislation within a broader ideological struggle, criticising identity-based politics and foreign influence.
“Uganda had become a failed state because of the politics of identity… as opposed to politics of interests,” he said.
He credited the ruling National Resistance Movement with stabilising the country through deliberate policy choices over the past four decades.
“The NRM and Ugandans have made choices on politics, social issues, diplomatic issues and economic issues over the last 40 years,” he said.
The President also linked the Bill to constitutional principles, noting that sovereignty ultimately lies with the people.
“As our Constitution covered it, we exercise our sovereignty regularly through elections and referenda,” he said.
Despite these assurances, Nile Post reporting indicates that
Museveni's remarks also come at a time debate around the Bill remains deeply polarised, with stakeholders divided over whether it protects or undermines democracy.
Mr Museveni urged proponents of influence, both local and foreign, to rely on persuasion rather than financial leverage.
“Influence people by example and not by coercion or manipulation,” he said.
As the Bill moves through Parliament, the clash between its stated ideological purpose and fears over civil liberties is expected to shape both legislative debate and public opinion in the coming weeks.