Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has announced his intention to contest for the office of Deputy Speaker once again following the 2026 general elections.
Tayebwa made the declaration at the National Resistance Movement (NRM) secretariat, where he had gone to collect expression of interest forms ahead of the polls.
“The Speaker has fulfilled all it takes; he has expressed interest, and we have both received it. I now want to hand it over to him,” said Dr. Tanga Odoi, Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission.
In his remarks, Tayebwa expressed gratitude to Dr. Tanga Odoi and the NRM Electoral Commission for what he described as a seamless and transparent process.
“I want to thank the Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, Dr. Tanga Odoi, for the smooth process he has taken us through,” Tayebwa said.
He added that when Dr. Odoi issues directives, “you have no choice but to comply. You must come in person—no shortcuts or delegating tasks. He made that very clear.”
Tayebwa emphasized the importance of leadership by example. “It is crucial for us as leaders to come here ourselves. This encourages others who wish to contest to do the same. I urge all aspirants to come early and follow the laid-down procedures, including those intending to stand against me,” he said.
“I encourage everyone to participate in line with NRM guidelines and let the voters decide. The role of the Electoral Commission is to facilitate, not influence, the outcome. We must all play by the rules,” he added.
Tayebwa is seeking re-election to represent the people of Ruhinda North, where he hopes to continue the development efforts he has championed.
“We’ve worked closely with the community and local leaders. There is unity in the constituency and across the district. For the NRM to succeed nationally, local leaders must be strong on the ground,” he said.
Reflecting on his achievements, Tayebwa noted, “The work is just beginning. It’s time we return to the people and highlight what the NRM government has accomplished. I may have helped tarmac the road, but as I always remind Ruhinda North, it was delivered through the NRM government.”
He stressed that the 2026 elections are about more than just his personal victory. “This isn’t only about me winning the constituency—it’s about ensuring that our president and all NRM flag bearers perform well, especially in Ruhinda North.”
Tayebwa concluded by confirming that he and Speaker Anita Among plan to continue their leadership roles as a team.
“I hope all goes well. After the parliamentary race, I’ll also be contesting again for Deputy Speaker. Speaker Anita Among and I agreed to run as a joint team—she for Speaker, and I for Deputy Speaker. This marks the beginning of a long but purposeful journey.”
