In Uganda, Museveni signs an explosive law against “foreign influence” despite concerns about freedoms.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has signed into law a controversial new bill aimed at limiting foreign influence in the country, despite criticism from human rights organizations and concerns raised by some financial institutions. The bill, dubbed the "Protection of Sovereignty Law," was passed by Parliament on May 5.

The legislation criminalizes, among other things, the promotion of "foreign interests against the interests of Uganda." It also prohibits anyone acting on behalf of foreign interests from developing or implementing any policy without prior government approval. Violators face up to ten years in prison and heavy fines.

NGOs and civil liberties advocates denounce the wording as extremely vague, arguing that it could allow the government to repress almost any form of political opposition. According to them, the government now has a legal tool that can be used against activists, journalists, opposition parties, and civil society organizations.

The Ugandan government, however, rejects these accusations and maintains that critics are exaggerating the law's true scope. Authorities argue that the legislation's primary aim is to protect national sovereignty from foreign interference in the country's political affairs.

In power since 1986, Yoweri Museveni regularly accuses his opponents of receiving foreign funding to destabilize his government. This new law reflects an increasingly firm political stance towards foreign influence and international organizations present in the country.

Faced with criticism from the economic and financial sectors, several initial provisions of the draft law were softened before its final adoption. In particular, a measure requiring all Ugandans receiving money from abroad to register as "foreign agents" was modified.

In its final version, this obligation now only applies to individuals receiving funds intended for political activities serving foreign interests. This development was particularly anticipated in a country where remittances from the diaspora represent a major source of foreign currency and essential support for many families.