Capt. Mike George Mukula, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, is under intense public criticism following a controversial social media post in which he celebrated the electoral defeat of long-serving party mobilizer Teddy Acham.
The post, widely condemned by NRM supporters and the general public, has sparked a political firestorm that threatens to erode party unity in the Teso sub-region ahead of the 2026 elections.
The outrage erupted after Mukula took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, posting a jubilant message about Acham’s loss in the Soroti City elders’ elections.
The post read: “Breaking: the cantankerous TEDDY ACHAM Soroti city Overwhelmingly defeated in elders elections just now… the city NRM supporters in jubilation,” and was accompanied by Acham’s photograph.
Rather than uniting the party’s grassroots following, Mukula’s celebration has triggered a backlash from across the political spectrum, with many accusing him of arrogance, vindictiveness, and division.
“Psychologists can easily detect your happiness now! A leader of your caliber (CEC member) should have reserved this tweet because we are heading into a season where everyone matters,” posted Nelson Namurebire in response. “Calmly console the defeated members for harmony. We are all NRM.”
Another user, Solomon UG, castigated Mukula’s behavior as unbecoming of a national leader: “This level of arrogance from someone seeking to be re-elected as chairman of the whole region, shame on you @Mukula.”
Teddy Acham, a seasoned NRM mobilizer and die-hard supporter of President Yoweri Museveni for over two decades, has been instrumental in building party support in the Teso region, her efforts earned her presidential recognition, including a vehicle and Special Forces Command (SFC) security, highlighting her strategic role in the party’s regional strength.
However, tensions between Acham and Mukula have grown steadily in recent years, with Acham accusing the former minister of orchestrating divisions among grassroots leaders and prioritizing personal ambition over party unity.
The situation escalated when Acham publicly endorsed David Calvin Ecodu, Mukula’s rival, for the Eastern Region CEC position, her endorsement was widely welcomed by cadres who praised her inclusive mobilization approach.
Multiple sources allege that Mukula has used his influence to undermine Acham’s political relevance. Reports indicate that ahead of the elders’ election, he distributed a total of eight million shillings in bribes, with each voter allegedly receiving 200,000 shillings to vote against her. Though the claims remain unverified, they have further fueled public resentment.
“It’s clear Mukula wants to silence any voice that threatens his grip on the region,” said a party insider who requested anonymity. “But his public gloating and alleged use of bribery are not just embarrassing, they’re dangerous to party cohesion.”
Acham’s supporters argue that Mukula’s vendetta is rooted in fear of her proximity to President Museveni and her boldness in raising issues during high-level meetings. According to sources close to State House, the president was briefed on Mukula’s conduct and responded by granting Acham additional security.
Calls are now mounting for the president and the NRM Central Executive Committee to take disciplinary action against Mukula. “This is a critical moment,” said one senior party member. “Dividing the party forces is uncalled for. If Mukula continues this kind of conduct, it will automatically affect the president’s popularity in the region.”
With the 2026 elections approaching, many within the NRM fear that Mukula’s divisive tactics may undermine the party’s standing in Teso, one of the NRM’s key strongholds. What began as a grassroots contest has now evolved into a defining moment for the ruling party’s future in the region.
As the nation waits for Acham’s official response, the pressure is mounting on Capt. Mukula to account for his conduct and restore unity within the NRM ranks.