As Uganda’s political season continues to gather steam ahead of the 2026 general elections, one meeting in Gulu has sent tremors across Eastern Uganda’s political landscape.
Calvin Echodu, a rising political mobiliser and aspirant for the NRM Vice Chairperson (Eastern Uganda) position, made what is being described by insiders as a political pilgrimage to meet with Retired General Salim Saleh, the enigmatic power broker and revered strategist in Uganda’s post-liberation politics according to credible sources with knowledge of Uganda’s political modus operandi.
Held at Gen. Saleh’s residence in Gulu, the meeting is being interpreted by political insiders not as a routine visit, but as a deliberate indicator of political alignment, and a calculated move by Echodu to consolidate backing from the military-political old guard.
Minds and Strategy
Echodu emerged from the meeting visibly energized, later posting on social media that he was “grateful for the wisdom and guidance” shared by Gen. Saleh.
“I’m fortified to press on with the mission of advancing our Chairman H.E. @KagutaMuseveni’s vision of transforming our country to middle-income status,” he wrote.
While no official statement was released, sources familiar with the meeting say discussions touched on grassroots mobilisation, youth economic empowerment, strengthening NRM party structures in Eastern Uganda, and strategic alignment ahead of internal party elections.
The sources add that Echodu used the meeting to tell Gen Saleh of his political ambitions that see him want to unseat Captain Mike Mukula.
Political pundits note that Echodu’s growing visibility and proximity to influential NRM figures like Gen. Saleh point to his readiness not only to contest, but to lead.
“This was not a courtesy call. It was a strategic handshake,” a source who requested anonymity said before adding, “When a man gunning for a key CEC position goes to Gulu, it’s to seal political understanding, not just drink tea.”
CEC: Eastern Battle Begins
Echodu is contesting for the influential NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, a Central Executive Committee (CEC) position that wields enormous sway in shaping party decisions, resource allocation, and grassroots influence across the 40+ districts of the eastern region.
The race for this seat has already attracted a number of contestants including Mukula who wants to retain his seat. But Echodu, a younger, development-oriented figure, has emerged as a dark horse, especially among youth and business circles. His approach blends patriotism with a modern vision for Uganda’s transformation, echoing the President’s own rhetoric of securing the future.
“Let’s continue mobilizing support for all @NRMOnline flag bearers and for H.E. @KagutaMuseveni ahead of the coming elections,” he added, in a message clearly aimed at rallying the party base beyond personal ambition.
Why Saleh Matters
Retired Gen. Salim Saleh, brother to President Museveni and long-time military strategist, has increasingly played a behind-the-scenes role in Uganda’s politics and economy. Although retired, his influence remains deeply rooted in the army, veterans’ associations, and economic empowerment projects across the country, particularly Operation Wealth Creation.
Well placed sources say his blessing, or perceived endorsement, is viewed by many in NRM as a game-changing force.
In Eastern Uganda, where internal divisions and shifting loyalties have weakened cohesion, who Saleh gives the green light, could be the factor that unites fragmented cadres behind a singular candidate.
Implications for 2026
Echodu’s Gulu visit may very well be a curtain-raiser to a well-choreographed campaign that combines generational renewal with ideological continuity. As the NRM seeks to rebrand and consolidate power amidst rising youth expectations and regional disparities, candidates like Echodu represent a bridge between legacy and future.
But the political stakes are high. Rival aspirants are already reportedly revising their strategies in response to Echodu’s growing momentum.
“This is no longer just about Eastern Uganda. It’s about who shapes NRM’s post-2026 internal architecture,” one political analyst noted.
