By Swift Reporter
Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has moved to clarify growing public debate surrounding the proposed Sovereignty Bill, dismissing claims that it seeks to restrict foreign investment, remittances, or religious funding.
In a message addressed to Ugandans, particularly the youth commonly referred to as “Bazzukulu”, Museveni said recent public discourse had misrepresented the intent of the legislation. He emphasized that the bill he initiated does not aim to block Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), diaspora remittances, or financial support to religious institutions. “Really, that is not the Bill I initiated,” Museveni said, pushing back against what he described as widespread noise and misunderstanding.
According to the president, the Sovereignty Bill is rooted in the historical struggle for African self-determination, dating back to the early 20th century and the continent’s resistance to colonial rule. He referenced Pan-African movements and figures such as Marcus Garvey, as well as the role of liberation movements like the African National Congress, in achieving independence across Africa. Museveni said the central aim of the bill is to safeguard Uganda’s autonomy in policy decision-making across political, social, economic, and diplomatic spheres, arguing that sovereignty means making national decisions without external interference.
The president cautioned against foreign actors attempting to influence Uganda’s internal decisions through funding or other means. He said sovereignty is already enshrined in the Constitution and exercised through democratic processes such as elections and referenda. He also criticized what he described as past political failures driven by identity-based divisions, including ethnicity, religion, and gender, arguing that these had previously weakened the country.
Museveni reiterated that Uganda remains committed to a free market economy, noting that there are no plans to restrict financial flows into or out of the country. He said Ugandans are free to send and receive money, including remittances from abroad, and that private sector activity remains a cornerstone of economic growth. He added that the flexibility of the private sector helps offset inefficiencies within public institutions.
The president said he has engaged key government officials, including legislators, to ensure that the Sovereignty Bill remains focused strictly on policy independence and does not extend into areas such as private financial transactions or business operations.
Museveni also pointed to efforts to revive indigenous economic assets, citing the resurgence of Ankole cattle as an example. He acknowledged Cyril Ramaphosa for supporting the promotion of the breed internationally.
He concluded by urging both domestic and international actors to influence Uganda through positive example rather than coercion or financial pressure, referencing biblical teaching to emphasize his point. The clarification comes amid ongoing public discussion over the scope and implications of the proposed legislation, with further parliamentary debate expected.
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