I’m Not Your ATM Machine — Tayebwa Tells New MPs as He Reveals Shs10m Daily Pocket Money for Bailouts

Newly reelected Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has warned newly-elected Members of Parliament against treating the offices of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker as personal financial rescue centres, saying the culture of endless bailouts places enormous pressure on parliamentary leadership.

Tayebwa made the remarks during the ongoing three-day orientation programme for Members of the 12th Parliament taking place at Parliament’s South Parking Yard.

The induction programme, which officially commenced on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. is aimed at helping newly-elected MPs adjust to their legislative duties and responsibilities at the start of the new parliamentary term.

The exercise is designed to familiarise legislators with Parliament’s institutional culture, legal framework, organisational structure, and operational systems that guide the work of the House.

In his opening remarks, Clerk to Parliament Adolf Mwesige urged MPs to actively participate in the training sessions, saying the programme would help them effectively execute their constitutional mandate.

Addressing the legislators, Tayebwa promised equal and fair treatment for all MPs on the floor of Parliament, regardless of difference in opinions.

He called on MPs to read and research more so as to be able to debate from an informed point of view.

He further urged MPs to master the Rules of Procedure if they want to become effective legislators, adding that they “must [also] go deeper to read and understand the needs of your people.”

Also the Ruhinda North MP, Tayebwa advised members to exercise financial discipline and avoid plunging themselves into unsustainable debts shortly after assuming office.

“Don’t look at the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker’s office as a walking Automated Teller Machine (ATM) designed to solve your individual financial crises,” Tayebwa cautioned.

The Deputy Speaker revealed that during the 11th Parliament, he often operated under intense pressure from MPs seeking financial assistance for personal emergencies, political activities, medical bills, school fees, and other commitments.

According to Tayebwa, the situation became so overwhelming that he developed anxiety whenever he reported to his office without carrying a substantial amount of cash – at least Shs10m in cash – to respond to the constant requests for help.

Many legislators enter Parliament with huge financial obligations and unrealistic expectations from their supporters back home, only to find themselves trapped in debt and constant financial distress within a short time.

Tayebwa advised the new MPs to live within their means, plan carefully for their salaries and allowances, and avoid the temptation of trying to solve every problem presented to them by constituents.

The Deputy Speaker noted that while leaders are expected to support people in times of need, many MPs end up overstretching themselves financially in a bid to maintain political popularity.

He warned that the pressure can easily affect performance in Parliament and create unnecessary dependence on the leadership of the House.

An enormous financial burden comes with political office in Uganda, with MPs frequently expected to contribute toward funerals, school fees, medical expenses, church projects, weddings, and other community activities.

The orientation programme for the 12th Parliament is expected to continue over the next three days, with legislators receiving training on parliamentary procedures, ethics, legislative drafting, committee work, and oversight responsibilities ahead of the official commencement of House business.

You can read about speakers of parliament since independence, and the names of MPs of the 12th parliament Here, There and Over There.

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