The Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa has called upon newly elected Members of Parliament from the Ankole sub-region to embrace unity and work together in advancing development priorities affecting the region.

He made the remarks during a congratulatory dinner organized in honor of Sheema District Woman Member of Parliament Adreen Katusiime Mwebesa at Fairway Hotel.

Addressing leaders and supporters at the gathering, the former Deputy speaker of the 11th parliament, the rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa applauded political leaders in Sheema District for demonstrating maturity during and after the elections.

He noted that unlike in some districts where defeated candidates returned as independents or challenged results in court, leaders in Sheema accepted the outcomes peacefully, something he described as a sign of unity and political discipline.

The former Deputy Speaker, who addressed more than ten newly elected legislators from the region, urged leaders to speak with one voice in Parliament to ensure Ankole benefits from national development programs.

He highlighted several priority areas requiring collective lobbying, including the upgrade of Kitagata Hospital to a regional referral hospital and the elevation of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital to a national referral hospital.

Tayebwa also emphasized the importance of improving road infrastructure across the region, saying better roads remain critical for trade, tourism, and service delivery.

He further challenged leaders to avoid divisions and political conflicts, noting that unity among elected officials is essential in supporting government programs and implementing President Museveni’s “Kisanja No Sleep” agenda focused on economic transformation and service delivery.

Meanwhile, Adreen Katusiime Mwebesa thanked the people of Sheema District for entrusting her with the responsibility of representing them in Parliament.

She pledged to serve diligently and fulfill the promises she made during the campaign period.

In an emotional moment, Mwebesa appealed to her husband to allow her time to fully dedicate herself to public service, describing leadership as a lifelong dream finally fulfilled.

The event attracted several prominent leaders from the Greater Bushenyi area, including Chris Rwakasi, former minister Richard Kaijuka, and former Local Government Minister Raphael Magyezi, who served as chief guest.