The National Resistance Movement (NRM), Uganda’s ruling party, is grappling with growing internal conflicts and mounting concerns over discipline among its members, threatening the party’s ideological integrity and cohesion.
Political observers and insiders alike warn that the rise in factionalism, corruption, and violence stems from a breakdown in party structures, particularly the long-neglected Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committees.
As the party approaches critical internal elections and prepares for a new political chapter, Calvin Echodu, an aspirant for NRM’s National Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, has emerged with a bold reform agenda aimed at restoring order and discipline within the party ranks.
Recent incidents across the country have highlighted deep divisions within the NRM, with some party cadres openly defying leadership and engaging in misconduct without consequence. Analysts blame this on the dormancy of key internal mechanisms designed to handle disputes and maintain ideological discipline.
“There’s a visible erosion of discipline in the party. Some members behave like they are above the law, and this undermines the NRM’s founding principles,” said political analyst Fred Musoke. “The failure to enforce accountability sends a dangerous message.”
Calvin Echodu believes the solution lies in revitalizing critical party institutions. If elected, he has vowed to reactivate and empower the Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committees, bodies that were once central to resolving conflicts and guiding members back in line with the party’s ideology.
“Once elected, I will work with the party to reactivate these committees, especially the reconciliation committee,” Echodu said. “These were very instrumental in handling matters before they escalated. Their reactivation will help us resolve conflicts peacefully and uphold unity within the party.”
He emphasized that restoring these committees will allow the party to discipline errant members and prevent infighting that often spills into public spectacles.
“The Disciplinary Committee will ensure that all members adhere to our core values. Those who deviate must face consequences, this is how we rebuild integrity,” he stressed.
Echodu also voiced strong support for President Yoweri Museveni’s leadership and vision, noting that reinforcing internal party discipline aligns with the President’s long-standing commitment to stability and national development.
“Our work is to support the President’s mission of building a modern, united, and prosperous Uganda. We cannot achieve this if our own house is in disorder,” he said. “By ensuring discipline and ideological clarity within the NRM, we are directly strengthening the President’s legacy.”
A key pillar of Echodu’s strategy includes recruiting and training young people in NRM ideology to foster national cohesion and a sense of purpose. He pointed out that many young people are drawn into political conflict due to unemployment and ideological confusion.
“When people have a common goal and purpose, it unites them,” he said. “We must train young cadres to understand and align with the party’s vision. This way, we create a team moving in one direction, towards national progress.”
He also underscored the importance of creating employment opportunities for the youth to reduce their vulnerability to political manipulation.
“Our young people need jobs and opportunities. When they are economically empowered, they focus on building their lives rather than being used in destructive politics,” Echodu added.
Echodu further pledged to work hand-in-hand with churches and religious institutions in promoting peace and community values.
“Religious leaders are vital in shaping mindsets and fostering harmony. They treat everyone equally and promote unity. We must engage them as partners in peacebuilding,” he said.
With growing grassroots support, particularly from the youth, Echodu presents himself as a fresh and energetic leader ready to help steer the NRM back on track.
“We are seeing a wave of support from the youth who are hungry for change and new energy. They want to support the President’s vision and be part of building a modern, civilized society,” he noted.