NRM parliamentary candidate for Soroti City West Division, David Calvin Echodu, has vehemently dismissed allegations being circulated by his political opponents accusing him of land grabbing.
Echodu made the remarks on Thursday while addressing hundreds of supporters during his third major campaign rally held in Amen Ward, where he urged residents to remain focused on development and reject political propaganda.
The rally, which drew enthusiastic crowds from Amen, and surrounding areas, marked a continuation of Echodu’s vigorous door-to-door mobilization as he seeks to unseat incumbent FDC legislator Jonathan Ebwalu in what has become one of the most closely watched races in Teso.
In uncompromising tone, Echodu dismissed the land grabbing claims as “pure lies manufactured by desperate opponents” who, he said, had failed to present any tangible achievements for the people of Soroti City West.
“I have heard people spreading lies that I am a land grabber. I want to tell them today, if you have evidence, bring it. Don’t fear. Bring the facts,” Echodu said to loud cheering from supporters.
He advised those making such accusations to follow lawful procedures instead of engaging in smear campaigns.
“If you truly believe I grabbed land, go to court. That is where justice is served. But you cannot continue spreading lies to confuse the people. If you fear court, then stop lying,” he added.
Echodu noted that the Opposition had resorted to character assassination because they had run out of ideas and had nothing new to offer the people of Soroti City West.
During the rally, John Enomu the Soroti City NRM Chairperson and head of Echodu’s campaign taskforce praised Echodu for his commitment to grassroots engagement long before joining formal politics.
He highlighted Echodu’s support for youth groups, families, and disadvantaged households across the division.
Enomu further added that Echodu represents a new generation of leaders focused on transforming Soroti City West from years of stagnation to meaningful development.
“It is only Echodu who will change Soroti City West. I am not standing for myself, I am standing for all of us, for our children, for the future of Teso,” he said.
He criticized the Opposition, especially FDC leaders, for misleading the public with false hope and empty rhetoric.
“FDC leaders are lying to people that there is fuel, yet what is in Soroti is sewage. They have failed to bring development but are instead experts in telling lies. We must not allow this to continue,” Enomu said.
Once again, Rt. Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, who has thrown his full support behind Echodu, addressed the crowd with strong words targeting politicians he accused of promoting division and corruption.
Elwelu reminded residents that the upcoming election was not about tribalism, anger, or political games, but about choosing leaders capable of delivering real transformation.
“This coming election is for development and unity, not for division, lies, corruption or fighters. Those fighting government are fighting development. Those spreading lies are afraid of those who speak truth,” Elwelu said.
He reiterated his earlier position that he would not attend any other candidate’s rally except Echodu’s, describing the NRM hopeful as the only leader in Soroti City West focused on peace, progress, and unity.
“Echodu is the only one preaching unity among the youth, among elders, among all communities. Others are busy stirring tribalism and conflict. We don’t need that in Teso,” he said.
Residents who attended the Amen Ward rally expressed frustration with what they described as slow development under the Opposition.
Many said they were ready to support Echodu because he had demonstrated commitment and accessibility.
“We have suffered with poor roads, dirty drainage, and limited opportunities. We need a leader who can speak for us in Kampala,” said Odongo Nelson, adding that Echodu’s connections at national level make him the strongest candidate.
Ome Samuel Omaria the Vice Chairperson of the NRM Youth League for the Eastern Region in Uganda echoed similar sentiments, saying the division needed a leader who could attract government programs and ensure transparency.
“We want someone who can follow up on government pledges. The current leadership has failed to deliver,” he said.
Despite the sharp rhetoric, Echodu urged his supporters to remain peaceful throughout the campaign period.
“Let us not insult, let us not fight. Let us campaign with respect. Teso is known for peace. The people will decide based on truths, not lies,” he said.
He also encouraged residents to rally behind President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and all NRM candidates to strengthen the region’s bargaining power for more development projects.
With campaigns now in their third day, NRM’s presence in Soroti City West has visibly intensified, accompanied by renewed confidence from party leaders who believe the tide is shifting in their favor.
Echodu’s rallies in Pamba, Orwadai, and Amen Wards have so far drawn significant crowds, and his messages of development, unity, and accountability appear to be resonating with many undecided voters.
About Author
