Uganda's president signs contentious law meant to curb foreign influence
Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has enacted a controversial law aimed at reducing foreign influence in the country. The legislation, known as the 'Protection of Sovereignty' bill, imposes strict regulations on foreign agents and their activities. Critics, including the central bank and the World Bank, warn that the law could have severe economic repercussions for Uganda.
- ▪President Yoweri Museveni signed the 'Protection of Sovereignty' bill into law.
- ▪The law criminalizes promoting foreign interests against Uganda's interests and requires foreign agents to register.
- ▪Violations of the law can result in up to 10 years in prison and significant fines.
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Uganda's president signs contentious law meant to curb foreign influenceSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxPublished May 18, 2026, 02:13 PMUpdated May 18, 2026, 02:13 PMKAMPALA, May 18 - Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has signed into law a contentious measure that he says aims to curb foreign influence in the country despite heavy criticism from quarters such as the central bank, warning it could trigger "economic disaster".The 81-year-old Museveni, in power since 1986, has over the years regularly decried outside influence in Uganda, accusing domestic political rivals of receiving funding from abroad.Museveni signed the legislation, effectively making it law, his office said in a statement issued late on Sunday.The "Protection of Sovereignty" bill, passed this…
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