The Bishop of Bukedi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Egesa Bogere, has urged Members of Parliament to make thanksgiving a culture of national reflection, integrity and service rather than merely an occasion to celebrate achievements.
Speaking during an inter-religious thanksgiving service at Parliament on Thursday, Bishop Egesa said thanksgiving should also provide an opportunity for leaders to reflect on their decisions, values and responsibility to the public.
“Thanksgiving should not only be for celebrating achievements but also as a moment for national reflection,” he said.
Drawing from Jeremiah 6:16, Bishop Egesa urged legislators to seek God’s guidance and follow principles that promote peace and the common good.
He said the right path was not necessarily the most popular or politically convenient, but one characterised by compassion, patriotism, integrity, the fear of God, hard work and service.
The bishop challenged MPs to translate their values into action by making decisions that protect and advance the interests of the public.
He urged the legislators not only to identify what is right but also to practise it, saying leaders should live by the principles they teach others.
Bishop Egesa also commended Hon. Balaam for efforts to fight corruption, although he cautioned that addressing the vice required more than tackling its visible symptoms.
Meanwhile, Imam Idi Kasozi, who led prayers during the service, emphasised the need for practical action to accompany calls for peace.
“When one speaks peace, it should be accompanied by action,” he said.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa commended Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth for placing God at the centre of the 12th Parliament’s leadership.
However, Tayebwa cautioned against portraying politicians as the only people involved in corruption, arguing that the vice cuts across different sections of society, including religious institutions.
“My Lord Bishop, the calls we receive every day are from those condemning us, including religious leaders requesting us for favours,” Tayebwa said.
The Deputy Speaker, who also represents Ruhinda North County, appealed to Bishop Egesa to pray for MPs, saying questions of morality and corruption should be examined beyond political considerations.
“We also carry the burden and we see corrupt people and we are concerned,” he said.
Speaker Oboth thanked God for His grace upon the 12th Parliament, saying legislators needed to recognise God’s role in their leadership and commit themselves to serving Him better.
He said the parliamentary prayer recited at the opening of sittings asks God to guide MPs in making just decisions as they carry the hopes, future and trust of the people they represent.
Oboth added that public office was a responsibility built on trust and conscience, requiring legislators to represent their constituencies faithfully.
The inter-religious thanksgiving service brought together parliamentary leaders and religious figures to reflect on faith, leadership and public service.
