Tayebwa Pledges Reforms After Re-Election as Deputy Speaker

Newly re-elected Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has vowed to support efforts to reform and strengthen Parliament, declaring that he knows “all the corners of the House” that require cleaning up as the 12th Parliament begins its five-year term.

Speaking shortly after taking the oath of office at the inaugural sitting of the 12th Parliament at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Monday, Tayebwa expressed gratitude to Members of Parliament for entrusting him with a second term and pledged to work closely with the newly elected Speaker, Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth.

“I promise, honourable colleagues, that I know all the corners of the House. I know where we need clean-up. I know where we need to maintain the status quo,” Tayebwa said. “And I will be sharing this information with my senior leader, the Right Honourable Oboth-Oboth, so that we can build a Parliament which we are all proud of.”

The remarks are likely to attract attention amid growing public scrutiny of Parliament over governance, accountability and corruption concerns that dominated political debate during the 11th Parliament.

Tayebwa said his re-election represented a renewed opportunity to serve Ugandans and improve the institution’s standing.

“Today, I stand before you with a heart full of gratitude, humility and renewed resolve,” he said. “You have given me a second chance, and I do not take your support for granted.”

The Deputy Speaker thanked President Yoweri Museveni for his continued trust and guidance, saying the President had consistently reminded leaders that public office is about service rather than self-interest.

He also acknowledged the support of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), fellow legislators across the political divide, his constituents in Ruhinda North, and members of the Patriotic League of Uganda.

Tayebwa pledged to foster cooperation between the government and opposition in advancing legislation and oversight, emphasizing that Parliament’s primary mission should be helping lift Ugandans out of poverty.

“To my colleagues in the opposition and all honourable members, if our mission is to get our people out of poverty, you will find in me a Deputy Speaker to work with,” he said. 

He added that Parliament should support government programmes through legislation and budget approvals while maintaining its oversight role to ensure accountability. 

Tayebwa paid tribute to Speaker Oboth-Oboth, as his long-time mentor and adviser.

“He has been my unofficial adviser, now I am going to be his quiet adviser as a deputy,” Tayebwa said lightheartedly, drawing laughter from members.  

The Deputy Speaker committed himself to supporting the Speaker’s agenda of strengthening parliamentary performance and restoring public confidence in the legislature.

His pledge comes at a time when the 12th Parliament faces heightened expectations from citizens demanding improved accountability, stronger oversight of public expenditure and legislation that addresses economic challenges affecting ordinary Ugandans.He called on MPs to work together to build a Parliament that earns public respect.   

“If you move out and say, ‘I am a member of the 12th Parliament,’ everyone should be able to say, ‘We appreciate the work you are doing,’” he said.