Speculation Mounts: Could Thomas Tayebwa Emerge as Speaker of the 12th Parliament?

As the race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament heats up, a new wave of speculation is swirling around Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa. While front runners Anita Among and Justice Minister Norbert Mao have declared their intentions, some analysts and political observers are questioning whether the contest could take a last-minute twist—with Tayebwa emerging as the surprise victor.

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, Tayebwa represented Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba at the MK Birthday Run in Kololo, a move seen by some as a subtle nod to his growing influence. Although Muhoozi was absent, he entrusted Tayebwa, a known ally, to stand in for him at the high-profile charity event.

Political analyst Timothy Kalyegira noted, “Four days ago, a Seer speculated about an unexpected horse ending up as Speaker. Today, the horse represented MK at the Kololo charity run. Supposing Tayebwa is the M7 dynasty’s favourite for Speaker, while the others are just for symbolic ‘regional balancing’?”

Tayebwa’s close relationships with both Gen. Muhoozi and Education Minister Janet Museveni have fueled further speculation. While Tayebwa has publicly maintained his intention to retain the deputy speaker seat, insiders suggest that, with the approval of key figures such as the CDF or the First Lady, he could be positioned for the top job.

With the swearing-in ceremonies for the new Parliament just weeks away, the Speakership race is expected to intensify—and all eyes are on the possibility of a late-game shakeup that could see Tayebwa take center stage.