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Mukula, who has held the position since 2009, announced his decision in a strongly worded statement condemning the integrity of the campaign process
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By Our Reporter
Kampala
Captain Mike Mukula, the long-serving National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, has withdrawn from the party's Central Executive Committee (CEC) elections just hours before delegates were scheduled to vote.
Mukula, who has held the position since 2009, announced his decision in a strongly worded statement condemning the integrity of the campaign process.
“After careful reflection, sober consideration, and with a clear conscience, I have taken the difficult but principled decision to withdraw my candidature,” Mukula wrote.
He decried what he described as a “grossly compromised” campaign, citing widespread corruption, voter bribery, and the reckless use of money to influence delegates.
“To participate under such circumstances would be to legitimise an illegality and to endorse practices that I fundamentally oppose,” he added.
Mukula, the former State Minister of Health, urged the party’s top leadership—including President Yoweri Museveni, the CEC, and the NRM Electoral Commission—to take urgent corrective action.
“It is imperative that the NRM reclaims its moral authority by addressing these vices and initiating reforms that will safeguard our internal democracy,” he said.
Despite his withdrawal, Mukula stressed his continued loyalty to the party and the people of Eastern Uganda.
“I remain steadfast in my commitment to the NRM, to the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and to the continued transformation of Eastern Uganda and the nation at large.”
Mukula’s exit raises concerns within the ruling party over the monetisation of internal elections. It also potentially opens the door for reformist candidates like Calvin David Echodu, who are positioning themselves as champions of transparency and inclusivity in the NRM.
Focus Shifts to Calvin Echodu
With Mukula out of the race, attention now turns to Calvin David Echodu, a Soroti-born social entrepreneur and founder of Pilgrim Uganda.
Who is Calvin David Echodu?
Echodu is a Ugandan social entrepreneur, humanitarian, and long-time NRM mobiliser from Soroti in Eastern Uganda. He has emerged as a frontrunner in the race for NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda (CEC), stepping into the spotlight following Capt. Mukula’s withdrawal.
Other Contenders Still in the Race
Jacob Oboth-Oboth – Minister of Defence
Dr. Musa Lumumba – Academic and veteran NRM figure
Daniel Ikwap – Businessman and youth mobiliser
Who is Captain Mike Mukula?
Captain George Michael “Mike” Mukula is a prominent Ugandan politician, businessman, and pilot. He has been a central figure in the NRM for over two decades, known for his outspoken defence of the party’s ideology and President Museveni’s leadership.
Mukula trained as a commercial pilot in the United States and at the Kenya School of Flying. Before entering politics, he operated a private aviation company that served high-profile clients, including President Museveni in the 1980s.
Career in Public Service:
Member of Parliament (Soroti Municipality): 1996–2016
State Minister of Health (General Duties): 2001–2006
NRM Vice Chairperson – Eastern Region: 2009–2025 (16 years)
As NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, Mukula was a key mobiliser, helping the party secure overwhelming electoral support in the region.
During the 2021 general elections, he played a crucial role in delivering more than 90 parliamentary seats to the NRM in Eastern Uganda.
Torch Media Africa
