Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has announced that all Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) Members of Parliament and PLU-leaning legislators will support Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa for the position of Deputy Speaker of Parliament.
The announcement has attracted widespread attention across the political scene, especially because Gen. Muhoozi had earlier hinted that the position would go to a woman.
In a statement shared publicly, Gen. Muhoozi said the decision followed guidance from President Yoweri Museveni, whom he referred to as the Commander-in-Chief. “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,” he stated.
The announcement marks a significant shift from Gen. Muhoozi’s earlier position, where he had promised Ugandans that the Deputy Speaker role would be occupied by a female leader. That earlier statement had raised expectations among supporters of women’s political representation, with many hoping Parliament would see another woman rise to one of its top offices.
However, the latest development now confirms that Thomas Tayebwa has secured strong political backing from one of the country’s most influential political groups. Analysts believe the endorsement could greatly strengthen his chances of retaining the position.
Thomas Tayebwa has been serving as Deputy Speaker and has remained an active figure in Uganda’s Parliament. Over the years, he has gained recognition for his confidence while presiding over parliamentary sessions and his ability to manage heated debates in the House.
Supporters of Tayebwa welcomed Gen. Muhoozi’s endorsement, describing it as a sign of unity and continuity within the ruling establishment. Some lawmakers argued that Tayebwa’s experience and leadership style make him suitable for the role.
Others, however, expressed disappointment over the sudden change in direction. Some Ugandans on social media questioned why the earlier promise of supporting a female candidate was abandoned. Critics argued that women continue to face challenges in securing top political positions despite repeated promises of inclusion.
Political observers say the statement also highlights the growing influence of the Patriotic League of Uganda within national politics. Although PLU is not officially a political party, it has increasingly become an important political pressure group with strong connections to powerful leaders.
Gen. Muhoozi’s public endorsements have in recent years carried significant political weight, especially among younger supporters and sections of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). His statements often generate national debate and attract attention from both supporters and opponents.
The reference to “guidance from the Commander-in-Chief” has also sparked discussion among political commentators. Many interpreted it as a sign that President Museveni remains deeply involved in shaping important political decisions within the ruling establishment.
For Thomas Tayebwa, the endorsement could strengthen his position ahead of any political contest related to the Deputy Speaker role. Political analysts believe support from PLU MPs and PLU-leaning legislators may influence other undecided lawmakers to rally behind him.
The development also raises questions about the future of female representation in senior parliamentary leadership. Uganda has previously had women occupy powerful offices, including the Speaker and Vice President positions, which many believed was a positive step toward gender balance.
Despite criticism from some sections of the public, others defended Gen. Muhoozi’s decision, arguing that leadership positions should be based on competence, experience, and political consensus rather than gender alone.
Several commentators noted that politics often changes quickly depending on negotiations and consultations among senior leaders. They argued that shifts in political strategy are common, especially when alliances and national interests are involved.
Meanwhile, supporters of women in leadership have called on political leaders to continue promoting female candidates in other key positions. They insist that women remain capable of delivering effective leadership at the highest level.
The announcement has continued to dominate political discussions online, with many Ugandans debating whether the decision reflects political pragmatism or a retreat from earlier commitments. Social media platforms have been flooded with mixed reactions from citizens across the country.
As Parliament prepares for future leadership decisions, attention is now focused on whether Tayebwa’s endorsement will translate into overwhelming support within the House. Many lawmakers are expected to publicly declare their positions in the coming weeks.
For Gen. Muhoozi, the statement once again demonstrates his growing role in shaping national political conversations. Whether praised or criticized, his comments continue to influence debate and attract widespread media attention.
Political analysts believe the coming days will reveal more about the calculations behind the decision and how it may affect relationships within both PLU and the wider ruling establishment. The endorsement may also shape future alliances ahead of upcoming political events.
With PLU MPs and PLU-leaning legislators now openly backing Thomas Tayebwa, the race for Deputy Speaker appears to have taken a decisive turn. Uganda’s political landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and many citizens will be watching closely to see what happens next.
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