By Peterson H. D
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) mobilisation drive in the Teso sub-region has gained unprecedented momentum under the dynamic leadership of David Calvin Echodu, the NRM National Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda. His spirited and inclusive approach, branded under the “New Energy” slogan, has breathed fresh life into the party’s grassroots structures, drawing massive crowds and reigniting enthusiasm for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s 2026 campaign.
Over the past days, Echodu has spearheaded an extensive mobilisation campaign spanning Kapelebyong, Kalaki, Kaberamaido, Katakwi, and Amuria districts, characterized by unity-building, reconciliation, and direct engagement with the electorate. His strategy focuses on strengthening local party cohesion and ensuring that every NRM supporter feels part of the larger campaign machinery.
The success of his efforts was vividly reflected in Saturday’s grand rallies in Katakwi and Amuria, where President Museveni wrapped up his Day Three campaign tour of the region. The events drew thousands of supporters who turned up in vibrant yellow, cheering the President’s message of cattle rehabilitation, economic transformation, and wealth creation.
Before the rallies, Echodu held multiple coordination meetings with district and sub-county leaders, ensuring smooth mobilisation and maximum turnout. His village-based approach, the Village Mobilisation Strategy, has been widely praised for reinforcing the NRM’s grassroots presence and energising local cadres.
“What we planned and promised during our early meetings is now being seen on the ground,” Echodu said while addressing mobilisers in Katakwi. “Our results speak for themselves. We are focusing on action, not rhetoric. This is the New Energy the NRM needs to sustain victory.”
During the Katakwi rally, Echodu presented a memorandum to the President, emphasizing cattle rehabilitation as a top regional priority.
President Museveni warmly welcomed the proposal, assuring the people of Teso that his government would address the long-standing challenge as part of his broader economic recovery agenda.
“I know it will be costly, but it will contribute greatly to the stability and prosperity of Teso,” Museveni said, to loud applause.
Echodu’s leadership has also been lauded for promoting inclusivity. He ensures that district chairpersons and grassroots leaders are given the opportunity to present their concerns directly to the President. In Kapelebyong, NRM Chairperson Patrick Ipalat praised Echodu’s flexibility and commitment, noting that his openness has “given us renewed confidence and a sense of belonging.”
Beyond mobilisation, Echodu has been instrumental in reconciliation efforts, bringing together previously divided party leaders, independents, and flag bearers. His mediation has fostered unity between top Teso leaders such as Vice President Jessica Alupo, State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, and Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, whose joint appearance in Katakwi symbolised renewed harmony in the region.
In Soroti City, NRM Chairperson John Enomu in an exclusive interview credited Echodu’s proactive leadership for revitalising support. “His robust handling of emerging challenges has re-energised the President’s campaign in Teso. Soroti City is turning yellow again,” Enomu said.
As President Museveni continues his campaign trail, Teso now stands out as a model of renewed party energy and discipline. Many NRM supporters and leaders agree that Echodu’s visionary leadership and relentless dedication to grassroots mobilisation have been the driving force behind the ruling party’s resurgence in the sub-region.