By Nathan Eyagu 

KAMPALA — Parliament's Appointments Committee has approved the appointment of Soroti City West Member of Parliament and National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Vice Chairperson for the Eastern Region, David Calvin Echodu, as State Minister for Foreign Affairs in charge of International Affairs, effectively bringing to an end weeks of debate surrounding his former United States citizenship.

Echodu, who was recently nominated by President Yoweri Museveni, appeared before the committee for vetting and emerged successfully after members confirmed that he had complied with all legal requirements regarding the renunciation of his American citizenship.

The approval clears one of the major issues that had dominated public discussion following his nomination, with critics and political commentators raising concerns about his eligibility for ministerial office due to his previous dual citizenship status.

During the vetting process, committee members examined the relevant documentation and established that Echodu had fulfilled the constitutional and legal obligations required for appointment to public office, paving the way for his confirmation and eventual swearing-in.

The development marks a significant milestone in Echodu's political career. Besides representing Soroti City West in Parliament, he serves as the NRM's National Vice Chairperson for the Eastern Region and has built a reputation as a businessman with extensive international exposure and networks.

His appointment is expected to strengthen Uganda's diplomatic and economic engagement efforts at a time when the country is seeking to expand foreign investment, deepen international partnerships, and increase its participation in regional and global affairs.

As State Minister for Foreign Affairs in charge of International Affairs, Echodu will be tasked with supporting Uganda's diplomatic missions, promoting trade and investment opportunities, representing the country in international engagements, protecting the interests of Ugandan citizens abroad, and fostering stronger bilateral and multilateral relations.

Echodu's background in business and international engagement could prove valuable in advancing Uganda's economic diplomacy agenda and attracting strategic partnerships that support national development priorities.

Following his successful vetting, Echodu expressed gratitude to the Appointments Committee for the confidence it had placed in him and pledged to serve Uganda with dedication and integrity.

In a statement shared on his X account, he described the interaction with the committee as a rewarding experience that had strengthened his determination to serve the people of Uganda.

"This afternoon, I had a wonderful interaction with the Appointments Committee of Parliament, an experience that has further strengthened my commitment to not only do my best, but to do whatever it takes to meet the expectations of the people of Uganda," he said.

"I am deeply grateful to the Committee for its approval and the confidence it has placed in me. As I prepare to take the oath of office, I pledge to faithfully uphold it and to serve with dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to our nation."

Echodu added that he looks forward to contributing to Uganda's development and progress through his new role in government.

With the approval now secured, attention shifts to his formal swearing-in and assumption of duties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he is expected to play a central role in advancing Uganda's interests on the international stage.