President Yoweri Museveni has issued an Executive Order to address citizenship challenges in Uganda. This directive focuses on ensuring fair treatment in passport applications and protecting citizens’ rights to identification documents.
The President stated: “By virtue of the authority vested in the President under Article 99 (1) and (4) of the Constitution, this Executive Order is issued on January 24, 2025.”
Complaints from the Public
President Museveni acknowledged receiving frequent complaints about how citizenship verification is handled during passport applications. He noted that many applicants experience undue hardships when proving their Ugandan citizenship.
The directive follows grievances from the Banyarwanda community. Many members, born and raised in Uganda, reported being denied passports and identity cards. This is despite their status as Ugandan citizens.
Citizenship Defined in the Constitution
The President reiterated that Chapter 3 of the 1995 Constitution clearly defines three types of citizenship:
- By birth
- By registration
- By naturalization
He stressed that the problem lies not in the law itself but in how authorities administer it.
Key Directives in the Executive Order
- Right to Passports and Travel
Every Ugandan citizen has an inherent right to a passport or travel document. They must also have the freedom to enter, leave, and return to Uganda. - Simplified Citizenship Verification
Immigration officers must follow Section 40 of the Citizenship and Immigration Control Act. This requires only a National Identification Number (NIN) and compliance with outlined requirements. - Respect for Applicants’ Dignity
Administrative processes must respect applicants’ dignity. No additional requirements outside the law should be imposed. - Presumption of Citizenship
Citizenship by birth is automatic and does not require approval from immigration officers. Officials must presume citizenship unless there is strong evidence to dispute the applicant’s claim.
Addressing Legislative Gaps
President Museveni highlighted a gap in current laws. Currently, children of citizens by birth or naturalization do not automatically gain citizenship. He directed the Minister of Internal Affairs and the Attorney General to resolve this anomaly immediately.
Protecting National Identification Cards
The President also prohibited the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control from confiscating or canceling National Identity Cards issued by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) without following proper legal procedures.
Ensuring Fair Treatment for All
“These directives aim to streamline citizenship administration and protect Ugandan citizens’ rights,” Museveni concluded.