By Our Reporter

Koboko, Uganda – In a strong demonstration of party unity and confidence in emerging leadership, National Resistance Movement (NRM) delegates from Koboko District have unanimously thrown their weight behind David Calvin Echodu for the position of NRM Eastern Region Vice Chairperson.

The endorsement took place during a high-level consultative meeting at the Koboko District Chambers, attended by prominent party officials and grassroots leaders from across West Nile. The gathering marked a significant moment in regional politics, as leaders rallied around a candidate they believe embodies both the values and energy needed to advance the party's mission.

Dramiga Samanya, NRM Chairperson for Koboko District, led the delegation in welcoming Echodu and commended his approachable leadership style and vision for strengthening party structures.

“Calvin represents a rare kind of leader—humble, grounded, and focused on grassroots transformation,” Samanya stated. “Our party structures have weakened over time, and we believe Echodu has the ability and the mindset to restore them.”

Samanya also called for urgent reforms to the Local Government Act to allow district leaders to more effectively supervise government projects and service delivery, urging Echodu to champion these reforms at the regional level.

In a symbolic cultural gesture, the delegates baptized Echodu with the name “Echoni”, meaning “the able one” in the local dialect, affirming his readiness to serve and lead. The name, they said, reflects their trust in his capability and commitment to the NRM cause.

Ambassador Nelson Ocheger, one of the key speakers at the event, praised Echodu for his past contributions to the party and his work in public health and education.

“Calvin has walked the talk,” Ocheger said. “He’s worked with the government to combat malaria, support education, and build networks across Teso, Karamoja, Lango, and parts of West Nile. His record speaks volumes.”

A senior member of the Elders League from Maracha, also a former Member of Parliament, gave a heartfelt testimony recalling his own struggles during the insurgency era and credited the NRM with giving him an education. He declared his unwavering support for Echodu, adding that the time for a generational transition had come.

“I studied S3 for three years during the insurgency. But when NRM came, I was able to complete my education,” he said. “Now I give my last breath to support Calvin, a focused and clear-headed young leader.”

In his acceptance speech, Echodu thanked the Koboko delegates for their trust and outlined his vision for a more vibrant and responsive party structure.

“President Museveni has laid the foundation. But to face today’s challenges, we need new energy, new ideas, and practical support for our leaders,” Echodu said.

He pledged to prioritize leadership training, cadre development, mobility facilitation for local leaders, and the creation of SACCOs aimed at strengthening party structures.

As the meeting concluded, the Elders League and party leaders presented Echodu with the NRM flag—a symbol of trust, hope, and responsibility.

“Keep the flag flying high,” they told him. “We stand with you.”

Leaders Present Included:

Jamila Sera, Chairperson, Koboko Municipality NRM

Dramiga Samanya, Chairperson, Koboko District NRM

Aniku Majid, Chairperson, Koboko NRM

Ofeku Gabriel, Chairperson, Maracha NRM

Sadick Mainstream, Chairman, Aruv Subcounty

With widespread grassroots and regional backing, David Calvin Echodu—now Echoni—moves forward as a leading contender in the race for NRM Eastern Region Vice Chairperson, symbolizing a blend of experience, humility, and forward-thinking leadership.