Uganda's Foreign Agent Bill Controversy

Uganda's government, led by President Yoweri Museveni, introduced a bill on April 15 to regulate individuals and organizations receiving foreign funding, requiring them to register as foreign agents and disclose all incoming funds. The legislation also criminalizes hindering government policy or promoting alternative public policies without approval. The World Bank Group, a major donor with a $4.57 billion project portfolio in Uganda, has expressed strong concerns in a letter to parliament, stating that the bill could expose its 'routine development activities' to criminal liability. Information Minister Chris Baryomunsi dismissed these concerns as unwarranted. The bill has drawn criticism from opposition politicians, non-governmental organizations, and commercial banks, who fear it will stifle legitimate foreign funding. Punishments under the proposed law include significant fines and prison sentences.