By Our Reporter
In a major political shake-up within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in Eastern Uganda, several top cadres from the Teso region have withdrawn their support for long-serving NRM Vice Chairman for Eastern Uganda, Capt. Mike Mukula, in favor of David Calvin Ecodu.
The meeting, which began with a deeply moving and powerful prayer, invoked the biblical story of David and Goliath, asking God to look upon His son, David Calvin Echodu, as he faces a formidable political battle. The prayer set the tone for a gathering marked by unity and determination
Among the key figures backing Ecodu are Teddy Acam, a State House Mobilizer in Teso, SPA/HE and Soroti District NRM Chairperson Charles Elasu, John Elibu the NRM Chairman of Gweri County, Augustine Otuko the Private Secretary to the President in charge Political affairs, H.E Ambassador Nelson Oceger, the Uganda High Commissioner to the federal Republic of Nigeria among other top figures.
Their support marks a significant shift in regional politics as Uganda prepares for the 2026 elections.
Echodu officially declared his candidacy for the NRM National Vice Chairman Eastern Region during a press conference held at Skys Hotel in Naguru, Kampala, on Wednesday, April 2.
His announcement was met with excitement from grassroots mobilizers who have long expressed dissatisfaction with Mukula’s leadership, accusing him of manipulation and divisiveness.
Acam strongly criticized Mukula, accusing him of fostering divisions among Teso leaders for his personal benefit, She further alleged that Mukula has been diverting pledges made by President Yoweri Museveni and sidelining dedicated NRM supporters in the region.
“I have raised these issues with the President multiple times. Mukula is not helping him in Teso. Instead, he plays political games for his own gain. He has never accurately reported the challenges facing the region to the President,” Acam stated.
She also referenced the Soroti City East by-election, where she accused Mukula of misleading President Museveni into endorsing Herbert Ariko as the NRM flag bearer. The election ended in controversy, with many voters opposing Mukula’s preferred candidate.
“Now, the NRM party is highly divided and at risk of losing key positions in Soroti City as a consequence of that by-election. If the President wants votes in Teso, he must first remove Mukula,” she added while rallying support for Echodu at his campaign launch in Kampala.
Charles Elasu, the longest-serving NRM Chairperson for Soroti District and a Senior Presidential Advisor, also expressed his firm support for Ecodu.
“I am very happy with Echodu’s candidacy and fully support him with all my heart. I am even willing to stand as his surety. Calvin is my political son, and I will do everything in my power to see him succeed,” he said.
Elasu further urged President Museveni to reconsider the individuals surrounding him, emphasizing that a change in leadership is necessary to maintain voter confidence.
“President Museveni must replace certain figures if he wants to secure votes in 2026. We are ready to support him in nationwide mobilization and ensure that Echodu secures a place in the Central Executive Committee,” he declared.
Political analysts suggest that Echodu’s candidacy poses a serious challenge to Mukula’s over decade-long hold on the position. Additionally, sources indicate that Mukula’s opponent, Hon. Sanjay Tana, is one of the key figures working hand in hand with Echodu. This growing opposition is expected to significantly impact Mukula’s political influence.
Augustine Otuko and Ambassador Nelson Oceger both urged the public to support Ecodu, emphasis of his significant roles in supporting the NRM government in serving the people in various sectors right from Education, health among others.
As Uganda moves closer to the 2026 elections, the contest for NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda is shaping up to be a highly competitive race.
With increasing support for Echodu from prominent NRM figures and grassroots mobilizers, Mukula’s political future remains uncertain.
CC Patriot
