Uganda: Parliament Reconvenes for Showdown On Sovereignty and Tax Bills

Parliament is set to resume its sitting today, with lawmakers expected to consider a number of controversial bills, including proposals on sovereignty and tax amendments likely to spark debate among legislators and the public.

According to the order paper for the sixth sitting of the third meeting of the fifth session of the 11th Parliament, the House will conduct the first reading of the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, to be presented by the Minister of Internal Affairs.

The proposed legislation is expected to draw significant attention due to concerns about its potential implications on Uganda's relations with foreign entities and external influence in the country's internal affairs.

Parliament will also debate tax-related amendments, including the second reading of the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2026, tabled by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.

The bill proposes changes to the country's VAT framework, which could affect businesses and consumers depending on the adjustments approved by lawmakers.

Also scheduled for consideration is the Excise Duty (Amendment) Bill, 2026, another proposal that seeks to revise excise duty rates on selected goods and services.

Similar amendments in previous years have triggered public debate due to fears of increased taxes on common consumer products.

During the same sitting, the House will receive several reports and documents, including a supplementary expenditure request for the financial year 2025/2026 and reports from Uganda's delegation to the Pan-African Parliament meetings held in Midrand, South Africa.

Sectoral committee reports on the proposed national budget for the 2026/2027 financial year will also be presented, covering key areas such as agriculture, health, education, infrastructure, environment and public service.

The debates are expected to shape key policy and fiscal decisions as lawmakers scrutinize legislation and budget proposals ahead of the next financial year.

Read the original article on Nile Post.