KAMPALA. The powerful First Son and also Chief of Defence Forces Muhoozi Kainerugaba has made a new turn and endorsed Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa to retain his position in the 12th Parliament.
Earlier ,Muhoozi had suggested that he will back a female speaker to replace Tayeba in the ruling NRM party’s ongoing reorganisation of parliamentary leadership.
In a statement posted on X on Tuesday morning, Muhoozi said the decision followed consultations with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
“On the issue of Deputy Speaker, after getting guidance from the Commander in Chief, all PLU MPs and PLU leaning MPs will support Rt. Honourable Thomas Tayebwa for that position. Congratulations Rt. Honourable,” Muhoozi wrote.
The announcement comes days after former Speaker Anita Annet Among withdrew from the race for Speaker of the 12th Parliament amid investigations into allegations related to wealth declaration and corruption.
The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), which is associated with Muhoozi, has already backed Defence Minister Jacob Oboth Oboth for the Speakership.
Tayebwa first became Deputy Speaker in 2022 following the death of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah. At the time, Among was elected Speaker while Tayebwa replaced her as Deputy Speaker.
The latest endorsement is expected to strengthen Tayebwa’s position as the ruling National Resistance Movement finalises leadership arrangements ahead of the opening of the 12th Parliament.
In recent days, investigations involving Among have attracted national attention following searches at properties linked to her in Nakasero and Kigo, where security agencies reportedly recovered documents, electronic devices and luxury vehicles for forensic examination.
Inspector General of Government Aisha Batala Nalule has confirmed receiving complaints alleging possible failure by Among to fully declare assets under the Leadership Code Act.
Among has pledged cooperation with investigators and said she stepped aside from the Speakership race in the interest of party unity and harmony.