Thomas Tayebwa Thrown Under the Bus as Muhoozi Picks Female MP for Deputy Speaker Job

 Thomas Tayebwa has been thrown under the bus as Muhoozi moved to pick a female MP for deputy speaker job.

A statement confirming this decision, as shared by Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and a key political figure within the ruling establishment, has added a new twist to the evolving contest for the Deputy Speaker position in Parliament.

While some had anticipated that with Anita Among’s fall, Thomas Tayebwa would be elevated, the Ugandan military chief says otherwise.

In a message that is already stirring debate within political circles, the First Son indicated that the incumbent Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, will not return to the position on the ticket of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

Gen Muhoozi, who also serves as a senior presidential advisor on special operations and as head with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), suggested that there will be new faces in parliament’s leadership.

His remarks signal a deliberate move to influence the party’s internal decision-making ahead of what is expected to be a tightly contested parliamentary leadership race.

“We shall propose to Mzee a suitable female candidate for Deputy Speaker,” wrote Muhoozi.

“That is the tradition. ‘Women hold up half of the sky’ as Mao Zedong said. Musibegye [Good day].”

The reference to “Mzee” points to President Yoweri Museveni, who doubles as the National Chairman of the NRM and retains the final say in key party endorsements. Muhoozi’s statement underscores the central role the presidency continues to play in shaping parliamentary leadership outcomes, even as internal lobbying intensifies.

Earlier, Muhoozi praised Tayebwa and promised him protection. “Hon.Tayebwa is a very good man. He is my younger brother. He has no problems. He is protected!” wrote Muhoozi.

Tayebwa’s Political Trajectory

Thomas Tayebwa has built a steady political career within Uganda’s legislative landscape, rising from a relatively low-profile legislator to one of the most influential figures in Parliament.

Representing Ruhinda North Constituency in Mitooma District, Tayebwa first gained prominence through his articulate contributions on governance, accountability, and national policy issues, earning recognition across party lines.

He briefly served as government chief whip after being convinced to opt out of the 2021 speakership race but resigned to contest as deputy speaker when Anita Among was elevated to speaker following the death of Jacob Oulanyah in 2022.

His tenure as Government Chief Whip further elevated his standing within the NRM, positioning him as a key mobilizer and liaison between the executive and the legislature.

His election as Deputy Speaker marked a turning point, placing him at the center of legislative business. During his time in the role, Tayebwa presided over several critical debates, including contentious budget discussions. He was often praised for his calm demeanor and ability to manage heated parliamentary sessions, helping maintain procedural order in a frequently polarized chamber.

Muhoozi’s Growing Political Influence

The intervention by Muhoozi Kainerugaba reflects his increasingly visible role in Uganda’s political affairs, particularly within the NRM’s internal processes. Muhoozi has transitioned from a strictly military figure into a central political actor whose opinions carry significant weight.

Through the activities of the Patriotic League of Uganda, Muhoozi has cultivated a nationwide network of supporters and political mobilizers. This structure has increasingly been used to shape narratives and build consensus around key political decisions, including leadership contests within Parliament.

His influence has been particularly evident in the ongoing race for Speaker and Deputy Speaker, where endorsements and public statements have begun to sway debate within the ruling party. Muhoozi’s pronouncements often serve as signals of broader strategic thinking within sections of the NRM, even as the final decisions remain in the hands of President Yoweri Museveni.

As the race unfolds, the exclusion of Thomas Tayebwa from the anticipated NRM ticket for Deputy Speaker is likely to reshape alliances and trigger fresh lobbying among contenders, particularly female MPs who may now emerge as frontrunners for the influential parliamentary role.

Meanwhile, Muhoozi has endorsed Defence Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth for the speaker job, replacing embattled Anita Among. See interesting facts about Jacob Oboth Oboth Here and There.

Meanwhile, the IGG has confirmed that Anita Among’s wealth is under investigation, on the day clerk to parliament Adolf Mwesige was summoned by Kibuli CID detectives over parliament’s spending and corruption. (See Details Here and There).