Partners living together without lobola payment to face jail in Uganda
Partners living together without lobola payment to face jail in Uganda – Uganda’s Parliament is facing intense debate over the Marriage Bill 2024, which seeks to criminalize cohabitation—a move now officially backed by the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU).
If passed, couples living together without formal marriage could face a three-year jail sentence or a fine of UGX 10 million.
The proposal, introduced by Tororo District Woman Representative Sarah Opendi, has drawn both support and criticism.
Proponents argue that it will protect vulnerable partners—especially women and children—who are often left in precarious situations when informal unions collapse.
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However, critics see it as an infringement on personal freedoms and an unrealistic attempt to regulate private relationships.
One of the most controversial aspects of the Bill is Clause 89, which defines “holding out” as living together as husband and wife, jointly owning property, having children together, or a woman taking her partner’s surname.
Under this clause, such couples could be prosecuted if they are not legally married.
Joseph Serwadda, Co-Chairperson of the Inter-Religious Council of Presidents, defended the council’s stance before the Joint Committee of Legal and Gender.
He acknowledged the widespread nature of cohabitation and proposed that the government consider a separate law to regulate such relationships while still criminalizing them under the Marriage Bill.
“While we push for the criminalization of cohabitation under the Bill, we observe that there is a need to offer adequate protection or rights to parties, children, and property acquired in cohabitation relationships,” Serwadda stated.
As legal experts, civil society organizations, and the public weigh in, the Bill is set to ignite further debate in Parliament.
If enacted, it could redefine family law in Uganda, with far-reaching consequences for relationships, property rights, and societal norms.
