By Nathan Eyagu 

KAMPALA — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s newly announced Cabinet for the 2026–2031 term has highlighted continuity and political trust within the National Resistance Movement (NRM), with Vice President Jessica Rose Epel Alupo and NRM Central Executive Committee member David Calvin Echodu emerging among the notable figures in the new government line-up.

The appointments, released under the constitutional powers of the President, retained Alupo as Vice President while elevating Echodu to the position of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of International Affairs.

Alupo, a retired Major and senior NRM leader from Eastern Uganda, continues to hold one of the country’s highest offices after maintaining her role as Vice President. Her retention is viewed as recognition of her long-standing service, loyalty to the ruling party, and contribution to government programs and national mobilization efforts.

Since assuming the Vice Presidency, Alupo has remained active in national development campaigns, regional peace initiatives, and government representation at both local and international levels.

David Calvin Echodu’s appointment has also attracted widespread attention, particularly within Eastern Uganda and among NRM supporters. Echodu currently serves as the NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda on the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC), one of the most influential organs within the ruling party.

The Soroti-based businessman and political mobiliser has steadily gained prominence within the NRM through grassroots engagement, youth empowerment campaigns, and mobilization activities across the eastern region. He has also been active in parliamentary politics as an aspirant for the Soroti West Division parliamentary seat.

Under the new Cabinet arrangement, Echodu will serve in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, supporting Uganda’s diplomatic relations, international cooperation, and regional engagement initiatives.

The broader Cabinet list retained several experienced ministers while introducing new appointments in strategic sectors including finance, health, trade, technology, security, and regional integration.

Among the key appointments announced by President Museveni were Rebecca Kadaga as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Henry Musasizi as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, and Ambassador Adonia Ayebare as Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The proposed appointments are expected to undergo the necessary constitutional and parliamentary processes before the officials formally assume office.