Parliament Deputy speaker Thomas Tayebwa

By: editor

The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has publicly endorsed Rt Hon Thomas Tayebwa for the position of Deputy Speaker in Uganda’s upcoming 12th Parliament, signaling renewed political backing from the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU).

In a statement posted on X on Tuesday morning, The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) directed all Members of Parliament affiliated with or leaning toward PLU to support Tayebwa during the parliamentary leadership elections.

“All PLU MPs and PLU leaning MPs will support Rt Honorable Thomas Tayebwa for that position,” Muhoozi said.

The endorsement comes after weeks of uncertainty surrounding PLU’s position on the Speaker and Deputy Speaker races. Earlier reports indicated that the organization had withdrawn support for both Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa pending further consultations and guidance from President Yoweri Museveni.

Political observers view Muhoozi’s latest statement as a major boost for Tayebwa, who currently serves as Deputy Speaker in the 11th Parliament. Tayebwa is widely regarded as one of the strongest contenders to retain the position in the next Parliament due to his experience, visibility, and support within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

The development also highlights the growing political influence of PLU within Uganda’s political landscape ahead of the formation of the 12th Parliament.

Earlier this year, PLU had endorsed both Anita Among for Speaker and Tayebwa for Deputy Speaker before internal discussions reportedly led to a review of that decision. The latest announcement appears to reaffirm support for Tayebwa as political alignments continue to shape the race for top parliamentary offices.

The election of parliamentary leaders is expected to attract significant attention as newly elected MPs prepare to assume office in Uganda’s 12th Parliament.