By Eye Media Political Desk
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party has narrowed the contest for its Central Executive Committee (CEC) Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda to three candidates, setting the stage for what promises to be a decisive battle. After a rigorous vetting exercise chaired by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at State House, only Hon. Mariam Naigaga, Capt. Mike Mukula (incumbent), and David Calvin Echodu survived the process.
The decision effectively eliminates six other aspirants, leaving the race to a woman and two male contenders, both of whom hail from Teso sub-region. By contrast, Naigaga represents Busoga, a factor that many party insiders and delegates believe gives her a regional edge and unique appeal in this highly contested race.
Political observers argue that the composition of the final three makes Naigaga a formidable frontrunner. As the only woman in the race, she carries the banner of female representation in a political landscape still dominated by men. With the NRM’s long-standing commitment to promoting women in leadership, delegates are likely to view her candidacy as an opportunity to advance gender inclusivity within the party’s top organ.
“She is not just representing Busoga; she is representing women across the region who want to see themselves reflected in decision-making at the highest level,” noted one NRM delegate from Tororo. “The fact that she combines youthfulness, energy, and proven political experience makes her a refreshing option compared to the old guard.”
Hon. Naigaga, the Woman Member of Parliament for Namutumba District, has already hit the campaign trail with vigor, rallying delegates from across the country. She has been meeting the top party organs, grassroot delegates among other stakeholdeds, pitching her message of renewal, inclusivity, and practical solutions to the challenges affecting the region.
Delegates interviewed from Easrern region expressed overwhelming support for her, arguing that the area, with its large voting bloc, has for long played a central role in sustaining the NRM’s dominance yet remains underrepresented at the highest level of party leadership. Many say that electing Naigaga would not only reward Busoga’s loyalty but also cement the party’s political strength in the sub-region ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Her strongest challenger, Capt. Mike Mukula, has held the position for over a decade, but some voices within the party are calling for fresh leadership. “Mukula has served well, but the party needs to embrace a new generation of leaders who can connect better with young people and women,” said a delegate from Mbale.
David Calvin Echodu, though respected for his youthful outlook, lacks the broad regional base and the gender card that Naigaga brings to the table. With two candidates dividing the Teso vote, Naigaga stands to consolidate the Busoga bloc and attract wider support from women and reform-minded delegates across the country.
As the campaigns gather momentum, Hon. Mariam Naigaga appears poised to mount the strongest challenge yet to the incumbent. With her gender advantage, regional backing, and energetic mobilization, she is emerging as the face of change many in the NRM want to see.
