As Uganda marks the 27th National Prayer Breakfast, the call to “Forgive and Forget” takes center stage — a message Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa says is crucial for a nation preparing to enter another election season.
Drawing from the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21–35), Tayebwa reflects on the servant who, after being forgiven a massive debt, failed to show the same mercy to another who owed him a small sum. “We are an imperfect lot in urgent need of mercy and forgiveness,” he reminds, warning that harboring resentment only leads to spiritual bondage.
“As a people, we must remember that one day we shall stand before the King of kings and give account of how we treated others and used our God-given talents,” he writes.
With the country on the cusp of another election cycle, Tayebwa cautions against reopening old wounds or weaponizing past mistakes for political mileage. “The only way to come out of this period unscathed,” he notes, “is to embrace the power of forgiveness and reconciliation.”
Quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., he emphasizes that “we are tied together in a single garment of destiny.” This, he says, is why gatherings like the National Prayer Breakfast are vital — bringing together over 15,000 people from political, diplomatic, business, social, and religious circles to pray and reflect as one nation under God.
“Fellowships like these strengthen our unity, promote healing, and attract blessings upon the nation and the region,” Tayebwa states.
He concludes with a heartfelt reminder:
“As a force, prayer is unmatched. It changes us from within, makes forgiveness possible, and leads to harmonious coexistence. Failure to forgive is detrimental — but through prayer, reconciliation can heal our nation.”
