Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has urged Members of Parliament to prioritize tangible results for citizens, emphasizing that effectiveness in office goes beyond participation in parliamentary debates.
Speaking during the ongoing National Resistance Movement (NRM) Leaders’ Retreat at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi, Tayebwa outlined a broader definition of legislative performance, calling on lawmakers to strengthen oversight, representation, and accountability.
Addressing fellow legislators, Tayebwa noted that while contributing to debates and passing laws remains essential, MPs must also ensure government programs deliver real benefits on the ground.
He stressed that effective oversight requires direct engagement with communities to identify gaps and address inefficiencies in public service delivery.
To illustrate his point, Tayebwa cited a personal intervention in Mitooma District involving the Parish Development Model (PDM). He revealed that application forms meant to cost 10,000 Ugandan shillings were being sold at inflated prices of up to 30,000 shillings.
According to him, holding open discussions with stakeholders helped expose the malpractice and restore public confidence in the program.
The Deputy Speaker further challenged MPs to deepen their understanding of parliamentary procedures, arguing that strategic use of rules enhances the quality of debate and ensures issues are addressed effectively.
He noted that mastering motions, time management, and procedural safeguards is key to influencing outcomes within the House.
He also highlighted the critical role of parliamentary committees, describing them as the engine of legislative work.
Tayebwa encouraged members to actively participate in committee sessions, saying this is where detailed scrutiny of government projects, including infrastructure and healthcare initiatives, takes place.
In his closing remarks, Tayebwa urged MPs to develop specialized expertise and remain focused on delivering measurable results for constituents. He emphasized that accountability and impact should remain central to parliamentary work, reinforcing public trust in Uganda’s legislative processes.