Uganda's President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has signed into law a bill forbidding foreign interference in the country, despite warnings from various concerned parties. The 81-year-old leader has frequently accused the opposition and non-governmental organizations of receiving funding from abroad with the intent to destabilize the East African nation.
Details of the New Legislation
The 'Protection of Sovereignty' bill, passed by parliament earlier this month, criminalizes the promotion of foreign interests at the expense of Uganda's interests. The law carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and also prohibits anyone from implementing or developing policies without government approval.
Concerns Raised by Critics
The bill has sparked widespread concern among rights groups, journalists, and sections of the private sector, who argue it could undermine freedoms and deter investment. Mwesigwa Rukutana, a former deputy attorney general and finance minister, stated: 'This bill has been opposed by almost all segments of society. My advice is to do widespread consultations to improve on it, to make it less toxic — or better still, shelve it.'
Human Rights Watch said the law mimics those passed in Russia and allied countries, using deliberately vague terms that can be applied to any campaigner deemed a nuisance.
