Fear in the Newsroom: Journalist Kungu Al-Mahadi Adam Warns Uganda’s Sovereignty Bill Could Criminalise Reporting

Concerns are rising within Uganda’s media circles after journalist Kungu Al-Mahadi Adam warned that the proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026 could significantly undermine press freedom, particularly through provisions he says risk criminalising legitimate reporting.

Speaking during a television show he moderated this week, Kungu raised alarm over Clause 13 of the bill, which introduces the offence of “economic sabotage.”

The clause states that any person who publishes information or engages in activities that weaken or damage the country’s economic system, or cause disruption and instability, could face criminal liability upon conviction.