NUP calls for withdrawal of ‘Protection of Sovereignty Bill’, labels it unconstitutional
The NUP leadership maintains that the proposed law cannot be salvaged through amendments, insisting that its core provisions are inherently problematic.
The opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) has called for the immediate withdrawal of the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, describing it as unconstitutional and fundamentally flawed.
Speaking at Parliament on Monday, the party’s Secretary General, Lewis Rubongoya, said NUP had formally presented its position opposing the proposed legislation, aligning itself with what he described as the views of several other stakeholders.
Rubongoya argued that the Bill, which is being considered as a measure to safeguard national sovereignty, instead undermines the very principle it claims to protect.
“Our position… is that the Bill is unconstitutional, irrelevant and brought in bad faith to further persecute those with divergent views,” he said.
‘Fundamentally Defective’
The NUP leadership maintains that the proposed law cannot be salvaged through amendments, insisting that its core provisions are inherently problematic.
“We opine that no amount of changes to the Bill can cure its defects, and it ought to be withdrawn,” Rubongoya stated.
He added that while the Bill purports to defend Uganda’s sovereignty, its provisions effectively limit citizens’ rights and freedoms, raising concerns about its broader implications for democratic governance.
“The Bill promises to protect sovereignty and yet in its every clause, it takes away the sovereignty of the people,” he said.
Growing Opposition to the Bill
NUP’s position adds to increasing criticism from sections of the opposition and civil society, who argue that the Bill could restrict civic space and target dissenting voices.
The government has defended similar legislation in the past as necessary to safeguard national interests and maintain stability, though it has yet to issue a detailed response to the latest objections raised against this specific Bill.
Parliamentary Debate Expected
The Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026 is expected to generate intense debate in Parliament, with opposition parties signalling a coordinated effort to challenge its passage.
Rubongoya expressed hope that lawmakers would ultimately reject the Bill.
“Hopefully, common sense will prevail,” he said.
As discussions continue, the proposed law is shaping up to be a key flashpoint in Uganda’s political landscape, testing the balance between state authority and civil liberties.
