Chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has endorsed Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa to retain his position in the 12th Parliament.The endorsement is seen as a major political boost for the Ruhinda North MP from Mitooma District and signals growing confidence within the ruling establishment that Tayebwa will secure a second term as Deputy Speaker.
Earlier speculation had suggested that Tayebwa, like Speaker Anita Among, could face political difficulties following investigations into alleged corruption and misuse of funds in the 11th Parliament, which was presided over by the two leaders.However, on Monday sources told The Investigator that Tayebwa was cleared after intelligence agencies reportedly found no evidence directly linking him to any misuse of parliamentary funds.“Tayebwa is a clean man. We reviewed the expenditures and found no evidence connecting him to the release of illicit funds,” a source familiar with the investigations said. In a post on X last night, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba confirmed that the PLU, in consultation with President Yoweri Museveni, had endorsed the Ruhinda North legislator for the position.
Church Intervention
The Investigator has also learned that intense behind-the-scenes lobbying took place to shield Tayebwa from the political purge that has swept away his boss Annita Among.According to sources, senior religious leaders from both the Catholic and Anglican churches appealed to President Museveni to pardon and maintain Tayebwa in office.
It should remembered that in 2025, Tayebwa attracted attention in Mitooma District after donating a church reportedly valued at Shs2.5 billion. He handed over St. Charles Lwanga Church to Christians in Kigarama Parish during a thanksgiving mass led by Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha of the Mbarara Archdiocese.“The Archbishop and Christians in Mbarara have been praying for Tayebwa, and now they believe their prayers have been answered,” a source said.
Sources further claim that Archbishop Bainomugisha personally reached out to senior leaders to plead for mercy and support for Tayebwa.“Tayebwa is among the most generous contributors to Catholic Church projects. The church felt it had a responsibility to stand by him during difficult times,” another source added.
Close Ties to Muhoozi
Sources also point to Tayebwa’s close relationship with Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba as another factor that strengthened his political survival.“The closeness between Tayebwa and Muhoozi was evident during the recently concluded MK Marathon, where Tayebwa played a prominent role,” the source said.Tayebwa has reportedly supported several PLU initiatives, a movement associated with Gen Muhoozi and his allies, including journalist Andrew Mwenda.
Elders Appeal to Museveni
Community elders from Mitooma District, including Gen Kahinda Otafiire, are also said to have appealed to President Museveni to retain Tayebwa as Deputy Speaker.The elders reportedly emphasized Tayebwa’s charitable work through his foundation, which supports vulnerable children through education sponsorship programs.“They told the President that Tayebwa is a disciplined leader who would never misuse public resources,” a source said.According to insiders, President Museveni considered the appeals from elders and religious leaders before the investigations cleared Tayebwa of wrongdoing.
Praised for Performance
Sources within government also say several presidential advisers praised Tayebwa’s performance in Parliament and described him as one of the emerging leaders within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).“Tayebwa is viewed as a loyal cadre and part of the future leadership of the NRM. Many believe he has the temperament and political maturity to guide younger leaders,” a source said.
Observers note that Tayebwa’s calm demeanor while presiding over parliamentary proceedings and his perceived loyalty to President Museveni have strengthened his standing within the political establishment.Some insiders also believe Tayebwa could play a key role in supporting Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s anticipated transition from military leadership into civilian politics.
Close Relationship With First Lady
The Investigator has also learned that Tayebwa enjoys a close working relationship with First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataaha Museveni, who reportedly holds him in high regard.
Author Profile
- Charles Gazza Kodili is a seasoned journalist with over 20 years of experience in the media industry. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication. He’s currently the Chief Editor at the Investigator.
Charles can also be reached via; Tel: +256 774 108978
Email: [email protected]
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