By Charles Katabalwa,
KAMPALA
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has declared he will not contest as an independent candidate should he lose in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries.
Tayebwa made the announcement on Sunday at the NRM Secretariat on Kyadondo Road in Kampala, where he officially picked nomination forms to contest for the Mitoma County parliamentary seat on the NRM ticket.
“I am ready to compete with anyone in Mitooma District on the NRM ticket, but if I am defeated, I will not stand as an independent. I believe in party unity and discipline,” Tayebwa said while addressing journalists.
He was received by NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson Dr. Tanga Odoi. Other senior government officials who picked nomination forms on the same day included Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja (for Kakumiro District Woman MP), and Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among (for Bukedea District Woman MP).
Tayebwa commended the NRM Electoral Commission for conducting a transparent nomination process and urged party members to remain united as the party prepares for the 2026 general elections.
During his current tenure as Deputy Speaker, Tayebwa has spearheaded numerous development projects in Mitooma District, including the construction of St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Church, valued at Shs2.7 billion, and the Mitooma Mini Hydropower Project, estimated at Shs50 billion.
He also cited improvements in education through the rehabilitation of schools, and enhanced healthcare services through better medical supplies and staffing at local health centres.
Tayebwa further revealed that he intends to seek re-election as Deputy Speaker in the 12th Parliament.
“I am committed to serving both my constituency and the country through the structures of the NRM. I urge all aspirants to respect electoral laws and maintain the integrity of our party,” he said.
