By Nathan Eyagu 

Soroti City – A growing wave of National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders from across the Teso Sub-region have openly expressed dissatisfaction with the leadership of Capt. Mike Mukula, the long-serving NRM National Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda. The leaders argue that after two decades in office, Mukula has failed to effectively mobilize the region and address persistent challenges, and they are now rallying behind a new candidate—David Calvin Echodu.

Speaking during a press briefing in Soroti, Opio John Richard Edeket, NRM Chairperson for Katakwi District, said Mukula’s tenure has been marred by internal divisions and weak mobilization efforts.

“We have worked with Mukula for over 20 years, but mobilization gaps remain clear. His infights have made it hard to liberate Soroti from the opposition. If he leaves that office, the opposition will easily cross over to NRM,” Opio said.

“I’m not accusing him—I’m simply pointing out weaknesses. The failure of Teso is on his head. Calvin Echodu will bring the change we need,” he added.

Echoing similar sentiments, Isaac Okello Omiat, NRM Chairperson for Amuria District, hailed Echodu’s entry into the race as “exciting news” for the people of Amuria and Teso at large.

“We need a leader who will bring energy and unity to the party. Echodu’s work in pushing for cattle compensation and supporting communities proves he understands the ground realities,” Omiat said.

“He is a herdsman himself and speaks our language. The people of Amuria are ready to walk miles to welcome him.”

In an unusually candid statement, Elasu Charles, Soroti District NRM Chairperson and Presidential Advisor, admitted that past and current leaders had failed Teso.

“We had opportunities—ministers, top leadership posts—but what have we gained? Teso remains one of the poorest regions. There is no real Teso agenda,” Elasu said.

“People wear smiles in public but harbor dark hearts. It’s time we test new leadership. Calvin Echodu is one of us and I support him, despite receiving threats for doing so.”

Peter Edeku Edepu, interim head of mobilization and chairperson of Echodu’s organizing committee, emphasized that the movement for change is widespread and backed by a majority of local NRM leaders.

“We have the support of 8 out of 11 district chairpersons in Teso and endorsements from all 17 NRM regions countrywide,” Edeku announced.

“We are planning a grand homecoming for Calvin Echodu from Awoja to Soroti with music, cultural performances, and the presence of national dignitaries.”

Edeku also took a swipe at the incumbent, stating that Mukula has only recently shown interest in grassroots activities—something he ignored for years.

“Since Calvin announced his bid, the incumbent has started doing things he hadn’t done in two decades. If Echodu had been in the Central Executive Committee (CEC), things would be different.”

As the NRM gears up for internal elections, the call for new leadership in Eastern Uganda is gaining momentum, with Calvin Echodu emerging as the face of reform and renewed grassroots engagement in Teso.