By Our Reporter 

The Minister of Defence and Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Jacob Markson Oboth, has publicly denied reports suggesting he has withdrawn from the race for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda on the Central Executive Committee (CEC).

Speaking out on social media and in a formal press statement, Oboth described the claims—circulating widely across WhatsApp groups and on X (formerly Twitter)—as false, misleading, and deliberately crafted to deceive party members and the public.

“Let it be known: I have not stepped down. I remain fully committed to this race,” Oboth stated. “These false claims are a mockery to democracy and an insult to the values our party stands for.”

The minister further accused operatives linked to his main political rival, Capt. George Michael Mukula, of orchestrating a coordinated misinformation campaign aimed at undermining his credibility and weakening competition ahead of the party's internal elections.

“This is not a mistake—it is a calculated campaign of dishonesty designed to shake public trust in my candidacy and discourage internal democratic competition,” he added.

The NRM Vice Chairperson seat for the Eastern Region is a powerful position that has been held by Mukula for over a decade. However, Oboth’s entry into the race has sparked interest, particularly among younger, reform-minded NRM members seeking renewal and internal accountability.

Several party insiders, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted that this is not the first time Mukula’s camp has been accused of using manipulative tactics to suppress challengers. “This kind of politics is slowly losing its hold,” one official remarked. “The base is now more vigilant and demands integrity from its leaders.”

Political analysts say Oboth’s firm stance could signal a shift in the party's internal culture, reflecting broader demands for transparency, generational change, and genuine competition within the ruling party.

“The politics of fear and misinformation are being rejected by the younger base,” said a political analyst in Mbale. “Oboth’s rebuttal could energize a new wave of leaders demanding fairness within the NRM.”

As the contest gains momentum, all eyes are on the Eastern Region, where the outcome may not only determine who holds the regional vice chair but also shape the future direction of leadership within the NRM.

Oboth concluded his statement by reaffirming his commitment to the race and urging supporters to remain focused on the values of truth and fairness:
“Uganda needs leaders who stand on truth—not those who manipulate to cling to power. The people will decide, and the truth will prevail.”