Faith-based organisations have expressed concern over the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, warning that some of its provisions could affect religious freedom, charitable operations, and lawful economic activity if passed without revision.
The concerns were contained in a memorandum submitted by the International Centre for Religious Advocacy and Development (ICRAD), working with the Remnant Identity Coalition (RIC), to the Clerk to Parliament and the parliamentary committees on Defence and Internal Affairs, and Legal and Parliamentary Affairs.
The Bill, which was read for the first time on 15 April 2026, is currently before committees for scrutiny following a public call for submissions issued by the Office of the Clerk to Parliament.
The proposed law seeks to regulate foreign influence, external funding, and what it defines as foreign interference in Uganda’s internal affairs. However, religious groups argue that its scope may extend beyond political activity and affect churches, mosques, and humanitarian organisations.
Among the key concerns raised are broad definitions of “foreign agent,” restrictions on promoting foreign interests, tighter controls on external funding, and administrative approvals for service delivery.
The memorandum warns that these provisions could unintentionally capture legitimate religious and charitable work.
“Religious organisations in Uganda are not only communities of belief but also major providers of education, healthcare, and social services,” the groups stated.
They further cautioned that vague provisions risk creating legal uncertainty: “Such clauses may lead to a chilling effect on lawful religious expression, international cooperation, and humanitarian engagement.”
The organisations also raised concern that some penalties under the Bill may be disproportionate and could discourage lawful economic activity carried out by faith-based institutions.
They urged Parliament to refine the Bill to clearly distinguish between harmful foreign political interference and legitimate religious, humanitarian, and development work.
Parliament opens scrutiny as Clerk invites public input on Sovereignty Bill
The debate over the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026 has now entered the committee stage in Parliament, following its First Reading on 15 April 2026 and referral to the Joint Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs and the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs.
The Office of the Clerk to Parliament issued a public notice inviting submissions from stakeholders, marking the beginning of public participation in the legislative process.
Faith-based organisations, including ICRAD and RIC, have responded with detailed proposals urging amendments to ensure the Bill aligns with constitutional protections on freedom of religion, association, expression, and lawful economic activity.
They have also requested an opportunity to appear before the committees to present their views in person, citing the large number of stakeholders they represent.
Parliament is expected to consider submissions from civil society, religious groups, and other stakeholders as it continues scrutiny of the Bill before it proceeds to the next stage of the legislative process.