Mukula calls for unity, seasoned leadership in NRM

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As the National Resistance Movement (NRM) gears up for internal elections ahead of the 2026 General Elections, Mike Mukula, the NRM national vice chairperson for the eastern region, has urged delegates to vote for experienced party cadres in light of a possible political transition.

Addressing delegates at the Soroti Sports Grounds during belated NRM Day celebrations on Saturday, May 31, Mukula said that Uganda could be heading towards a new era of leadership and that these internal elections must foster unity.

Mukula who is seeking re-election to the position, stressed the need for seasoned leaders to serve on the Central Executive Committee (CEC), especially during what could be a crucial transitional period for the country.

Mukula also criticised the recent visit by National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi to the Teso sub-region.

He accused Kyagulanyi of mocking residents by offering compensation for cattle lost during the insurgency.

Mukula, a former Member of Parliament for Soroti Municipality, was joined at the event by several senior government and party officials.

These included ICT and national guidance minister Dr Chris Baryomunsi, sports state minister Peter Ogwang, former government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo, fisheries state minister Hellen Adoa, works state minister Musa Ecweru, NRM CEC aspirant Sanjay Tana, and other regional party leaders.

Dr Baryomunsi, who also serves as the NRM national vice chairperson for the western region, urged the people of Teso to rally behind the NRM to ensure continued development and national progress.

Meanwhile, minister Ecweru pledged to speak with Mukula’s opponent, David Calvin Echodu, urging him to focus on the Soroti City West MP seat instead so Mukula can remain on the CEC.

He emphasised that the city needs strong NRM representation.

Minister Adoa commended Mukula, describing him as a father figure who took up arms to fight the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in Teso, and argued that such a figure should not be ignored when leadership positions are being decided.

Sanjay Tana called on the people of eastern Uganda to rally behind senior leaders, including the Vice President, Speaker, and ministers. He urged NRM members to stop undermining one another.

Several local leaders formally crossed over to the NRM at the event. These included Moses Emabu (UPC), the Amuria district chairperson; Henry Moses Omaje (FDC), the former LC3 chairperson for Katakwi subcounty; and John Charles Ongole (FDC), the former LC3 chairperson for Guyaguya subcounty in Katakwi. They were all welcomed by Mukula.