Uganda prepares new measure targeting civic groups

KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) — Uganda’s deputy interior minister says the government has drafted a new bill to punish what he called “errant” civic groups that meddle in domestic politics and promote “bad cultures.”

James Baba said Tuesday that under the new measure, currently under consideration by the Cabinet, civic groups risk losing their licenses if they engage in activities other than those officially declared to local authorities.

The measure comes two months after this East African country enacted a harsh anti-gay law amid Western condemnation and as the country’s longtime president prepares to seek another term in office.

The new bill has been condemned by pro-democracy campaigners who see it as part of wider effort to silence growing dissent ahead of elections in 2016.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has held power since 1986.