Capt. Mike Mukula Defends Track Record, Calls for Responsible Campaigning in NRM CEC Race

As the race for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) Vice Chairmanship (Eastern Region) heats up, incumbent Vice Chairman Capt. Mike Mukula has issued a robust and detailed response to fellow aspirants Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth and Dr. Musa Lumumba, urging for an ideologically grounded and respectful campaign.

In a strongly worded press release titled “A Response to the Aspirants for NRM CEC Vice Chairmanship (Eastern Region),” Mukula welcomed the democratic spirit shown by his challengers but emphasized the need for clarity on the role and responsibilities of the office they seek to occupy.

Clarifying the Role of the CEC and Regional Vice Chairperson

Mukula underscored the constitutional framework of the NRM, explaining that the CEC is the party’s highest decision-making organ responsible for ideological guidance, policy direction, and structural oversight. Contrary to public perception, he emphasized that the office of the regional Vice Chairman is a voluntary, non-remunerated position, devoid of a government budget, official transport, or development funds.

“The Vice Chairperson is primarily a political mobilizer, not a government functionary. It is misguided to blame the office for poor roads or youth unemployment,” Mukula stated.

He noted that service delivery issues—such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and youth employment—are the mandate of government ministries and agencies, not party offices.

Track Record and 2021 Electoral Success

Mukula defended his 16-year tenure, pointing to significant contributions during the 2021 general elections. He credited his regional mobilization efforts, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when President Museveni could not physically campaign, for securing an overwhelming NRM victory in the East.

“Through a bold and self-funded helicopter campaign, I ensured we secured 97 NRM MPs and 25 NRM-leaning independents. This was not a fluke—it was the product of strategy and sacrifice,” he asserted.

He added that only a handful of opposition MPs were elected from the region, demonstrating the effectiveness of his leadership and the trust the people of Eastern Uganda had placed in the NRM under his guidance.

Warning Against Populism and Misrepresentation

Mukula cautioned his challengers against misleading the electorate by promising deliverables outside the mandate of the Vice Chairperson’s office. He called for political maturity, institutional literacy, and ideological discipline within the party.

“Aspiring leaders must not exploit the frustrations of communities by making promises they cannot fulfill. It is unethical and counterproductive,” he said.

He described the NRM as a movement of “enlightened cadres,” not a platform for populist rhetoric or internal antagonism.

Voluntary Service and Ideological Consistency

Capt. Mukula reaffirmed his commitment to the Movement, stating that he has served selflessly without salary or state benefits. He highlighted his personal investment in party mobilization, grassroots engagements, and ideological training.

“I have not used my position to enrich myself or create political dynasties. I’ve supported youth, women, veterans, and religious institutions—not because I had to, but because I believe in the Movement’s mission,” he emphasized.

He also pointed to his consistent defense of NRM values—including pan-Africanism, patriotism, and socio-economic transformation—even during turbulent political periods such as the multiparty transition and civil unrest.

A Message to Fellow Aspirants

In his concluding remarks, Mukula directly addressed Hon. Oboth Oboth and Dr. Musa Lumumba, recognizing their potential but urging them to campaign truthfully and with respect for party structures.

“Leadership is not about slogans. It is about depth, humility, and respect for institutions. Let us compete with ideas and protect the unity of the NRM,” he advised.

Mukula reiterated his commitment to continue serving the people of Eastern Uganda and the NRM with "dignity, wisdom, and unwavering patriotism" as the party prepares for the 2026 general elections. Capt. Mike Mukula is a former Member of Parliament, seasoned pilot, entrepreneur, and one of the long-serving leaders within the NRM's top decision-making organ. His latest remarks come at a time of heightened internal party activity as the NRM gears up for its electoral roadmap leading to 2026.