By Nathan Eyagu

Soroti, Uganda — Former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Peter Elwelu, has endorsed National Resistance Movement (NRM) parliamentary aspirant David Calvin Echodu, saying Soroti City West urgently needs development-focused and decisive leadership to address years of stagnation.

Gen. Elwelu made the remarks while addressing residents during a mobilisation event in Amen A Ward, where he argued that the constituency has fallen behind due to weak leadership and prolonged political divisions. He warned that continued infighting would undermine service delivery and delay the implementation of key government programmes.

Describing Echodu as a disciplined and results-oriented leader, Gen. Elwelu said the NRM candidate has the capacity to restore focus, strengthen coordination with government agencies, and drive meaningful development. He noted that the strong attendance at Echodu’s campaign engagements reflects growing public confidence and a desire for change among voters.

The former army commander urged residents to rally behind Echodu, emphasising that unity within the ruling party is essential for accelerating development and ensuring that Soroti City West fully benefits from national government initiatives.

Echodu, in his address, pledged to prioritise youth empowerment, improved service delivery, and transparent engagement with the community. He said effective leadership must be rooted in an understanding of local needs and the ability to mobilise government resources to deliver tangible results.

Gen. Elwelu’s endorsement is widely seen as a significant boost to Echodu’s campaign, signalling increasing support from senior figures within the NRM as the 2026 general elections draw closer.

Echodu is seeking to unseat incumbent Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Member of Parliament Jonathan Ebwalu on a platform centred on development, stability, and renewed opportunities for the people of Soroti City West.