Parliament to Deliberate NGO Funding Bill, 2026 Ahead of 12th Parliament Swearing-In

KAMPALA – Parliament is gearing up to debate the NGO Funding Bill, 2026, following its submission to the Office of the Clerk to the Speaker.

The discussion comes ahead of the swearing-in of the 12th Parliament members, scheduled from 13th to 15th May 2026.

The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen oversight of non-governmental organisations in Uganda, including tighter reporting requirements and regulation of foreign funding.

The Bill has already generated discussions among lawmakers and civil society groups, some of whom caution that its implementation could significantly affect NGO operations.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa stated that neither he nor Speaker Anita Annet Among would comment on the Bill at this stage. “As presiding officers, it would compromise our neutrality to express views before the matter is formally debated,” Tayebwa said.

Currently, the Bill is under administrative review by the Clerk to the Speaker.

Lawmakers are holding informal consultations, and parliamentary committees are expected to seek input from stakeholders once the Bill is officially tabled for its First Reading.

Political activist Nyanzi Martin Luther petitioned the Bill as a Private Member’s Bill on 27th February 2026, citing concerns over NGO accountability, compliance, and foreign funding.

Observers say the timing of the 12th Parliament’s swearing-in will play a critical role in how quickly the Bill progresses through Parliament.

The stage is now set for what promises to be a highly watched debate on NGO regulation in Uganda