Kampala – Capt. Mike Mukula, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairman for Eastern Uganda, has announced his withdrawal from the race to retain the position, citing widespread malpractice in the ongoing campaign process.
In a strongly worded statement released today on his X handle, Mukula said his decision was reached after “careful reflection, sober consideration, and with a clear conscience,” describing the move as difficult but guided by principle.
Mukula expressed deep concern over the integrity of the campaign process, accusing it of being “grossly compromised” by rampant corruption, open voter bribery, and reckless expenditure of huge sums of money to sway delegates.
“Such practices undermine the very spirit, values, and historical mission upon which the NRM was founded. They erode the moral fabric of our Movement and threaten to delegitimize our internal democratic processes,” Mukula stated.
The former Soroti Municipality MP emphasized that he could not continue in a race tainted by such practices, insisting that his withdrawal was a matter of principle.
“To participate under such circumstances would be to legitimize an illegality and to endorse practices that I fundamentally oppose. I therefore choose principle over expediency, conscience over convenience, and integrity over position,” he said.
Mukula added that his decision should not be mistaken for weakness or indifference but rather “an act of conviction and political maturity” against the commercialization of politics.
He called on the NRM Chairman, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Central Executive Committee (CEC), and the Party’s Electoral Commission to reflect on the challenges facing the ruling party and implement reforms to restore integrity.
“It is imperative that the NRM reclaims its moral authority by addressing these vices and initiating reforms that will safeguard our internal democracy, restore integrity, and inspire confidence among our members and the wider population,” Mukula urged.
Despite withdrawing from the race, Mukula reaffirmed his loyalty to the NRM, President Museveni, and the people of Eastern Uganda.
“I remain steadfast in my commitment to the NRM, to the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and to the continued transformation of Eastern Uganda and the nation at large,” he said, pledging to continue serving the country “guided always by the principles of patriotism, integrity, and service above self.”
The announcement marks a dramatic twist in the Eastern region’s NRM vice chairmanship contest, which has attracted significant attention amid concerns over internal party democracy.
