KAMPALA — As debate intensifies around Uganda’s proposed National Sovereignty Bill, fresh concerns have emerged over what observers describe as dangerously low levels of public awareness about the legislation.
The bill, currently before the Parliament of Uganda and tabled by State Minister for Internal Affairs David Muhoozi, seeks to regulate foreign influence and strengthen Uganda’s control over its internal affairs.
However, businessman Nyanzi Martin Luther warns that the real issue may not be the content of the bill—but the fact that many Ugandans know little or nothing about it.
“I moved around and asked people about the National Sovereignty Bill, and honestly, most of them told me they don’t know it,” Luther said after visiting Parliament. “This is dangerous because once it becomes law, those same people will be the first to make mistakes and claim they were never informed.”
According to Luther, the situation reflects a wider pattern of public disengagement from national policy processes, even as key decisions are being made.
“Right now, Parliament is passing a national budget and debating important laws, but many Ugandans are not paying attention,” he said. “Some are just going on with their daily lives—sleeping, eating—without realizing how these decisions will affect them.”
He cautioned that such detachment could carry serious consequences, particularly if the law introduces strict compliance requirements affecting individuals, businesses, and organizations.
Mixed reactions from stakeholders
Government officials have defended the proposed legislation, arguing that it is necessary to safeguard Uganda’s sovereignty. A source within the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs said the bill is intended to ensure national interests remain protected from undue foreign interference.
Supporters, including veteran politician Yusuf Nsibambi, say the bill provides a needed legal framework.
“It is important that Uganda sets clear boundaries to protect its sovereignty while ensuring accountability among all actors,” Nsibambi said.
However, critics continue to raise concerns. Political analyst Charles Onyango-Obbo warned that the bill may contain structural weaknesses if not carefully reviewed.
Civil society organizations such as Chapter Four Uganda have also expressed fears about possible restrictions on civic space.
“There must be clarity and wide consultation to avoid creating laws that could be misused,” a representative said.
Meanwhile, governance watchdog Alliance for Finance Monitoring has called for urgent public sensitization.
“A law of this nature requires citizens to fully understand it. Otherwise, enforcement becomes problematic,” an analyst noted.
Former minister Miria Matembe has also warned of potential unintended consequences, particularly for households that depend on foreign support.
Growing call for civic engagement
Across Kampala and other parts of the country, reactions remain mixed. While some citizens support efforts to assert national control, others admit they are only learning about the bill for the first time.
As deliberations continue in Parliament, the National Sovereignty Bill is increasingly highlighting a deeper issue—the gap between policymaking and public awareness.
For voices like Luther, the message is clear: without stronger civic engagement, many Ugandans risk encountering the law only after it has already taken effect.
