Sanjay Tanna Reaffirms Sole Ugandan Citizenship Amid Dual Nationality Debate

Trade Minister-designate Sanjay Tanna has reaffirmed that he is exclusively a Ugandan citizen, addressing concerns that have emerged following recent ministerial appointments made by President Museveni.

Speaking to journalists at Parliament after appearing before the Appointments Committee on Monday, Tanna said he was questioned about his citizenship during the vetting process and made it clear that he holds no nationality other than Uganda’s.

“The vetting process went well. When the committee asked about my citizenship, I explained that I am only a Ugandan citizen and possess only a Ugandan passport,” Tanna said.

His remarks come at a time when public discussion over Uganda’s dual citizenship laws has intensified, particularly regarding whether individuals with dual nationality can legally occupy certain senior government positions.

The debate has gained momentum following the appointment of several ministers and a petition challenging the eligibility of dual citizens to serve in ministerial offices.

Tanna has previously played a role in shaping Uganda’s citizenship framework. While serving as Member of Parliament for Tororo Municipality in 2009, he supported legislation that laid the foundation for the country’s current dual citizenship regime.

Article 15(7) of the Constitution empowers Parliament to enact laws regulating the rights and responsibilities of dual citizens. This later led to the passage of the Uganda Citizenship and Immigration Control (Amendment) Act, 2009.

During parliamentary discussions on the Bill, Tanna argued that it would help remedy historical injustices suffered by Ugandans of Asian descent who lost their citizenship during the 1972 expulsion.

He stated that the legislation offered an opportunity to correct the hardships experienced by those who had long sought restoration of their citizenship status.

Tanna also advocated for clearer guidelines regarding provisions that allow individuals to acquire citizenship based on significant contributions to Uganda. He questioned how such contributions should be measured and suggested that objective criteria be established.

He further proposed adopting more structured classification systems similar to those used in countries such as Australia and Canada.

At the same time, Tanna supported maintaining restrictions on dual citizens holding certain sensitive public offices, arguing that issues of allegiance and national interest should be carefully considered.

“I strongly support the inclusion of the Fifth Schedule. Their loyalties would not be there. Even America does not accept it, so why should we be the first to allow holders of dual citizenship to occupy those offices?” he said during the 2009 debate.

He also suggested that the list of restricted positions should be expanded to include offices such as Member of Parliament, Chief Justice and other senior public roles.

Tanna represented Tororo Municipality in Parliament from 2006 to 2016, serving two consecutive terms. He was first elected in 2006 and retained the seat in 2011 before losing to Apollo Yeri Ofwono in the 2016 elections.

His son, Shyam Jay Tanna, later regained the constituency seat in the January general elections.

Although Ugandan law permits dual citizenship, the Uganda Citizenship and Immigration Control (Amendment) Act, 2009 prohibits dual citizens from occupying several positions listed under the Fifth Schedule. These include President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of State.

The matter has returned to the spotlight following a petition submitted by lawyer and Democratic Front Deputy Secretary General Deric Fredric Namakajo. The petition, addressed to Parliament and copied to President Museveni and Security Minister Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, questions whether the appointment of dual citizens to ministerial positions complies with existing legal provisions.

As Parliament completes the vetting of presidential nominees, Tanna’s clarification is expected to remain central to the ongoing discussion about citizenship requirements and eligibility for high public office.