Religious Leaders Call for Talks After Sovereignty Bill passed

Religious leaders have called for dialogue and restraint after Uganda’s Sovereignty Bill passed Parliament, following days of opposition criticism over the handling of the law.

Archbishop John Baptist Odama warned that the proposed law could deepen divisions, saying legislation should protect the common good and bring citizens together, not set them against one another, according to Nile Post.

Parliament passed the Protection of Sovereignty Bill on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, after adopting amendments that officials said narrowed its scope and removed some contested provisions. Parliament had earlier said changes included dropping a proposal that would have classified Ugandans living abroad as foreigners.

Critics, however, remain concerned about the bill’s possible impact on civic freedoms, foreign-funded organisations and political activity. It was  reported that the proposal had drawn backlash from civic leaders, bankers and legal experts over its broad definition of foreign influence.

Odama made his remarks in Lira City during the 20th anniversary of Peace Prayer Week, a regional initiative bringing together religious, cultural and political actors to promote reconciliation in northern Uganda.

The event also focused on wider peace concerns, including the long-running Apaa land conflict involving Madi and Acholi communities. Religious leaders urged dialogue, restraint and protection of civilian life.