Tension has mounted in the race for the Eastern Uganda NRM National Vice Chairperson position as NRM District leaders from sub-regions across Eastern Uganda unanimously endorsed David Calvin Echodu as the best candidate for the role.
Eastern Uganda NRM CEC Position is under the sub regions including; Teso, Sebei, Elgon, Bukedi and Busoga.
This endorsement came during a high-profile homecoming event held at Soroti Sports Grounds, Soroti City on Saturday.
The gathering served as the official launch of Echodu’s candidature for the NRM National Vice Chairman Eastern region seat.
Other district leaders from other sub regions also rallied behind Echodu, highlighting his commitment to the people of the region.
The event also marked the return of over 200 former NRM members who had joined the FDC, citing dissatisfaction with corrupt leadership as confirmed by their leader Enatu Patrick, the returnees pledged renewed support for Echodu, praising his vision and dedication to the Teso sub-region.
The function attracted key regional leaders and coordinators including Aliun Boniface (West Nile), Oluka George (Lango), Lotem Lino (Amudat), representativs from Acholi and representatives from Busoga.
Cultural leaders present included HRH Raphael Otaya, the Kumam cultural leader, and Her Majesty Juliet Among Etomeileng, representing the Iteso cultural leadership.
Several political leaders also graced the event and over 5000 deligates
Under the slogan “New Energy to the Party,” coordinators emphasized the need for mindset change, urging voters to choose leaders who prioritize the people’s needs over personal interests.
They called for unity and peaceful elections, urging those in power not to disrupt grassroots activities, citing a recent incident in Katakwi where a minister allegedly confronted a local council leader during an election exercise.
The coordinators expressed gratitude to the masses who turned up in large numbers to support Echodu.
Ambassador Nelson Ocheger, Echodu’s chief campaign agent, commended the show of support, stating that the endorsement is a turning point for Teso and Eastern Uganda.
He noted Echodu’s contributions to education, healthcare, and peace efforts in Teso since 2011, and his unwavering support to the NRM and President Museveni both politically and financially.
Elasu Charles, NRM chairperson and presidential advisor, called for full support for Echodu, saying, “Enough is enough. It’s time for a new face to lead and bring true service delivery.”
In his address, Echodu welcomed back the returnees to NRM and thanked God and the supporters for the overwhelming turnout.
He acknowledged the presence of cultural and political leaders, and reiterated that transformation is possible through electing visionary leaders who work closely with the president.
“We must be courageous and patient. The time of unfulfilled promises is over. It’s time for action and change,” Echodu declared.
He stressed the importance of unity in fighting unemployment, poverty, and corruption, urging voters to support him and the president to take the country to the next level.
Echodu officially announced his bid for both the NRM National Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda and Soroti City West MP seat.
Addressing critics who question his public speaking, he asserted, “People say I don’t know how to talk, but I talk about real issues like how to get food and fight corruption.”
Despite facing political intimidation in Teso, Echodu affirmed his resolve to serve his people, saying, “This country belongs to us all. Let’s stand strong and support our leaders.”
He pledged to reconnect NRM to the grassroots and inject new energy into the party by strengthening structures, recruiting, and training cadres for service delivery.
As a gesture of support, Echodu donated crop seeds worth UGX 500,000 to each of 25 Village Saving Groups in Soroti City West and East.
He also contributed UGX 4 million to two bodaboda SACCOs in the same area.
Former FDC leaders who returned to NRM also announced their endorsement of Echodu, marking a strong wave of support across the region.
In his conclusion, Echodu said, “Life is about moments, and today is a moment we shall never forget. I promise to transform our community. May God bless you all for God and my country.”
About Author
