Title: The Marriage & Divorce Bill 2022: 3 Things Every Ugandan Couple Should Know
After decades of debate, the Marriage and Divorce Bill remains a hot topic in Uganda’s legal landscape. While not yet fully enacted in its original form, proposed changes continue to influence judicial decisions. Here are key points every spouse should understand:
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Matrimonial Property is No Longer Automatic: The Bill proposes clear guidelines on how property acquired during marriage (even if only one spouse paid for it) should be divided upon divorce, recognizing non-monetary contributions like homemaking and farming.
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Cohabitation Rights: Under current law, cohabiting partners (living together without marriage) have limited rights. The Bill sought to protect property rights for those who have lived together for a significant period, especially regarding the family home.
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Grounds for Divorce: While cruelty and adultery remain grounds, the Bill aimed to streamline “irretrievable breakdown of marriage” as the main reason.
What to do now: If you are separating, don’t just pack bags. Seek a legal separation agreement or consent divorce decree to protect your future assets and custody rights.