Thomas Tayebwa's calculated journey from rural beginnings to Deputy Speaker of Parliament

Thomas Tayebwa, whose name signifies “one who never forgets,” has strategically leveraged memory and foresight to achieve a remarkable political ascent, culminating in his election as Deputy Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament. His journey from humble beginnings in Mitooma District to this prominent position is marked by a calculated adaptation to the complexities of partisan politics and power struggles.

Born in 1980 to peasant farmers, Tayebwa’s early life was rooted in rural peasantry, attending local schools before arriving at Makerere University in 2001 with modest means but significant ambition. He often recounts his arrival with a metallic suitcase and limited funds, contrasting it with his current position and emphasizing the transformative power of opportunity and his own determination. His time at Makerere not only provided him with academic credentials, including a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences and a Bachelor of Laws, but also served as a crucial period for building a network of influential contacts.

Tayebwa’s political career began within the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), where he was a founding member and a vocal mobilizer in the western region. However, he soon became disillusioned with the limitations of perpetual opposition, expressing a desire to be in a party that could attain power. This led him to a strategic shift, temporarily stepping away from active politics to engage in the private sector while maintaining ties with ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) figures.

His eventual cross-over to the NRM was seen as a significant gain for the ruling party, consolidating their hold in western Uganda. Tayebwa successfully contested and won the parliamentary seat for Ruhinda North, demonstrating his ability to connect with constituents through tangible development projects. He founded a successful Women Farmers’ SACCO, lobbied for government to take over local schools, and facilitated international partnerships for community development.

His ambition for the Deputy Speakership placed him in a competitive internal NRM race, particularly against Anita Among. While he initially lost a key caucus vote, subsequent political realignments, including a period as Government Chief Whip, paved the way. Following the untimely death of Speaker Jacob Oulanyah, and Anita Among’s elevation to Speaker, Tayebwa’s path to Deputy Speaker became clear, solidifying his position as a key figure in Parliament.

his international profile has also grown, notably with his election as President of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) Parliamentary Assembly, further enhancing Uganda’s diplomatic standing.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)