Workers raise alarm over Sovereignty Bill ahead of Labour Day celebrations
NOTU Chairperson General Musa Okello described the Bill as “dangerous,” arguing that its potential impact on labour and economic stability could undermine workers’ livelihoods.
By Joseph Sooka
As Uganda prepares to mark Labour Day on Friday at Nkoyoyo Primary School in Buikwe District, labour unions have raised fresh concerns over the proposed Sovereignty Bill, warning it could have far-reaching implications for workers and the broader economy.
During a pre-Labour Day event organized by the National Organisation of Trade Unions (NOTU) at the Uganda Electricity and Allied Union offices in Njeru, union leaders urged government to reconsider the proposal.
NOTU Chairperson General Musa Okello described the Bill as “dangerous,” arguing that its potential impact on labour and economic stability could undermine workers’ livelihoods.
He called on workers to oppose the legislation and pledged to engage President Yoweri Museveni directly to ensure it is not passed in its current form.
The concerns come despite recent assurances from government that the Bill is aimed at protecting Uganda’s sovereignty in policy decision-making and will not restrict foreign investment or remittances.
However, labour leaders remain cautious, warning that any policy perceived to limit economic openness could affect job creation and worker welfare.
Beyond the Bill, union leaders used the platform to highlight deeper structural challenges in Uganda’s labour market. NOTU Secretary General Richard Bijirwa said that while jobs are being created, many are not “decent enough” to sustain workers, pointing to low wages, weak enforcement of labour laws, and poor working conditions.
He called for stronger regulation, inspections, and enforcement to ensure compliance with labour standards.
Meanwhile, Filbert Baguma, Secretary General of the Uganda National Teachers’ Union, renewed calls for salary enhancement for teachers, emphasizing the need for equitable pay between science and arts educators.
He also urged employers across sectors to respect workers’ rights and improve workplace conditions.
The pre-celebration, which drew participants from multiple unions nationwide, sets the stage for what is expected to be a Labour Day marked not only by celebration but also by renewed calls for policy clarity, decent work, and inclusive economic reforms.
