(Courtesy Image)
By Nathan Eyagu
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa and a group of prominent business associates have funded the construction of St Charles Lwanga Church in Kigarama, Mitooma District, and refuted claims of using public money for the project.
On Sunday, Tayebwa officially handed over the nearly-complete church to the parishioners. The handover event began with a solemn mass of thanksgiving, led by Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha of Mbarara Archdiocese.
During the ceremony, Archbishop Bainomugisha lauded Tayebwa for his benevolent act, urging the congregation to follow his example by contributing to their communities and serving God.
"I want to extend my thanks to Mzee Daudi Bangirana, the father of the deputy speaker, and express our gratitude to Deputy Speaker Tayebwa for this beautiful church of St Charles Lwanga," Bainomugisha said. "Each of us should emulate his spirit of giving and contributing to our communities."
Addressing accusations that public funds were used, Tayebwa clarified, "While the church isn't complete yet, we are not soliciting donations. We have already secured the funds needed to finish it. Those suggesting that government money was used are mistaken."
Tayebwa revealed that he, along with his friends—prominent business figures Geoffrey Kirumira, Hamis Kigundu, Sudhir Ruparelia, Ben Kavuya, and Amos Nzei—raised Shs1.7 billion in just one hour to kickstart the church construction.
During the ceremony, Mr. Bangirana, the deputy speaker's father, expressed deep gratitude. Reflecting on his life and his son's achievements, he said, "My father passed away at 35, and I am now 80, with my wife at 74. We give thanks to God for our lives and our son's accomplishments."
Proud of his 12 children, including eight sons such as Tayebwa, Mr. Bangirana's joy was palpable as he celebrated this significant milestone with his family.
