Lira, Uganda | National Resistance Movement (NRM) cadres in the Lango sub-region have issued a stern warning against individuals they describe as “masqueraders” allegedly planted by opposition forces to infiltrate and destabilize the party ahead of the upcoming internal elections.
The caution was raised during a strategic mobilization meeting held at Silver Peak Hotel in Lira City, convened to rally support for Calvin David Echodu, an aspiring candidate for the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region.
The meeting drew party loyalists from across the sub-region, many of whom publicly endorsed Echodu’s bid to unseat incumbent Capt. Mike Mukula in the 2025–2030 cycle.
Addressing attendees, Father Alfred Okello, an NRM coordinator from Dokolo District, urged members to remain alert and discerning.
“We must scrutinize every candidate. Those with hidden opposition agendas must not be allowed to hijack our structures,” he said.
Okello described Echodu as a humble, people-centered leader whose faith and service-oriented approach align with the party’s long-term goals.
He further challenged the youth to play a more active role in shaping the country’s future, advocating for intellectual leadership over financial handouts.
“We need brains, not just money, to manage Uganda’s resources and lead us forward,” he stated.
Stella Anyango, an aspiring Woman MP for Oyam District and member of the NRM Entrepreneurs League, also backed Echodu’s candidature.
She praised his inclusive leadership, noting his readiness to work with youth, women, veterans, and other groups.
“He is mature, competent, and committed to representing the broader interests of the party and the nation,” she said.
Anyango expressed concern over a leadership vacuum in Northern Uganda following the passing of former Speaker Jacob Oulanyah, stressing the importance of electing credible representatives who will strengthen the party at both regional and national levels.
Echodu, a businessman, educationist, and philanthropist, is widely recognized for his work through Pilgrim Africa, an NGO he co-founded with his wife.
The organization has significantly impacted the Teso sub-region through education, malaria prevention, and agriculture programs.
Though he narrowly lost the Soroti West parliamentary race in 2021 to Independent candidate Jonathan Ebwalu, Echodu’s influence continues to grow.
Born in Tubur, Soroti District, he is campaigning under the theme “Bringing New Energy to the Party.”
He will face off against three other contenders for the NRM CEC Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region incumbent Hon. Capt. Mike Mukula, Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, and Dr. Musa Lumumba.