Amanze Chinonye
President Yoweri Museveni has moved to quell growing public debate over Uganda’s proposed Sovereignty Bill, insisting that the legislation does not seek to restrict foreign direct investment (FDI), remittances, or funding for religious bodies, Prime Business Africa reports.
In a statement addressed to Ugandans, particularly the youth, Museveni said recent criticism of the bill was based on “misinterpretation and misinformation,” stressing that the version he initiated focuses strictly on protecting Uganda’s independence in policy decision-making.
“The Bill I initiated was about sovereignty in policy decisions political, social, economic, and diplomatic not about restricting lawful financial flows into or out of Uganda,” he said.
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The president explained that the proposed legislation is intended to shield Uganda from external interference in its internal affairs, including attempts to influence national decisions through financial or ideological pressure. He cited issues such as political representation, social policies, economic strategies like privatization, and diplomatic positioning on global conflicts as areas where Uganda must retain full autonomy.
Museveni anchored the proposal within the broader historical context of Africa’s struggle for independence, referencing the role of early Pan-Africanists such as Marcus Garvey and liberation movements like the African National Congress, which he said contributed to ending colonial rule across the continent.
He also reiterated that Uganda operates a liberal economic system that allows free movement of capital, including remittances from Ugandans abroad and private sector investments. According to him, this openness remains central to the country’s economic resilience.
“The NRM cannot countenance interference with the freedom of movement of capital,” Museveni said, adding that such flexibility has helped Uganda’s economy grow despite inefficiencies in the public sector.
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The president disclosed that he has engaged key government officials, including legislators, to ensure that the bill remains narrowly focused on sovereignty in governance and does not extend into areas affecting private enterprise or financial flows.
Museveni further cautioned against foreign-backed influence in Uganda’s domestic affairs, urging actors to rely on persuasion and example rather than coercion. He referenced biblical teachings to emphasize the importance of leading through actions rather than external pressure.
The Sovereignty Bill has sparked debate in recent weeks, with critics raising concerns over its potential implications for civil society, international partnerships, and economic openness.
However, the president’s clarification is expected to shape ongoing legislative discussions as Parliament considers the proposal.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
