In a powerful and forward-looking interview on NTV’s Talk of the Nation segment, aired on May 17, 2025, Mr. Calvin Echodu, an aspirant for the position of National Resistance Movement Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, laid out a compelling vision for his candidature. He is stepping forward to revive the party, empower the youth, and bring real development to Eastern Uganda.
Mr. Echodu opened his remarks by commending the Party leadership for implementing transformative measures in the ongoing Party Structural Elections. He specifically acknowledged the pivotal role of the NRM National Chairman, H.E. Yoweri Museveni, and the National Secretariat for introducing a digitized Membership and Voter Register. He also thanked the NRM Electoral Commission for organizing what he termed a “widely successful” grassroots election.
According to him, the smooth conduct of these elections is a testament to the party’s evolving democratic maturity. Central to his message was a call for reconnection between Party leadership and the people. Mr. Echodu didn’t shy away from tough truths. He boldly said what many have been thinking for years: that some leaders within the Party have grown distant from the people they represent. He promised to change that in respect to the Eastern Region.
“I want to rebuild the trust between the Party and our people. We must go back to our roots,” he said. His message was simple but powerful: leaders must be both accessible and accountable. True to his message of inclusivity, Echodu emphasized that his leadership style is grounded in the belief that all voices matter.
Furthermore, Echodu spoke about the socio-economic challenges facing the region he seeks to represent, noting that Eastern Uganda remains the poorest in the country. Born and raised in Tubur, Soroti District, Echodu knows the pain of poverty and underdevelopment in the region. He committed to making local development a top priority, with a strong focus on connecting the region to both national opportunities and international development partners. His plan is not just about promises; it’s about action and results. He wants to unlock the potential of the region and uplift its people.
Highlighting the crucial role of youth in shaping the Party’s future, Echodu emphasized the need for structured engagement and empowerment. In this regard, he outlined a clear plan centered on four pillars: proper identification, recruitment, training, and deployment of young people into real positions of responsibility. “Our young people are full of energy and ideas. What they lack is opportunity. I want to change that,” he said.
The interview offered a glimpse into a campaign that is both people-centered and reform-oriented. With a focus on grassroots engagement, youth empowerment, inclusivity, and regional development, Echodu appears determined to chart a bold new path for NRM in the Eastern Region. His message speaks directly to frustrated young people who feel ignored or shut out of the current political structures. He is inviting them in. He made it clear that he will not be a leader who listens only to elites. “Everyone matters. Every voice counts. From village elders to market vendors—this party should work for all,” he said.
With his leadership style, new energy, and inclusivity, Mr. Echodu brings something many feel is missing in the current NRM leadership. In a bold move, Echodu frankly acknowledged that while the ongoing NRM Party structural elections have largely been a success, there have been reports of malpractices in some isolated areas, which, in his estimation, account for less than 5% of the entire exercise. However, he was quick to reassure viewers of the Party’s ability and commitment to identifying and eliminating such misconduct.
Many politicians fear speaking about such issues, but not Echodu. His honesty makes him stand out as a courageous politician who is not afraid to speak his mind. Mr. Calvin Echodu is not your usual politician. He is a listener and, above all, a servant of the people. His message is clear: it is time to reconnect with the people. It is time for a new energy in NRM.
Credit : NTV Uganda