History Made in Soroti Today!! Calvin Echodu’s Homecoming Inspires Thousands
A large and enthusiastic crowd gathered at Soroti Sports Ground on Saturday to welcome Calvin Echodu in what turned out to be a remarkable homecoming event. What began as a joyful celebration quickly transformed into a powerful gathering that many now see as a sign of change and renewed hope for Eastern Uganda.
Echodu, who recently declared his bid for the position of NRM Vice Chairperson for the Eastern Region, gave a heartfelt and moving speech. He connected deeply with the people by speaking directly to their everyday struggles, earning loud applause and strong support from the crowd throughout his address.
“I know that some of you came here today without having had breakfast or lunch. I understand how hard things are,” he began, acknowledging the economic hardships faced by many in the region.
“But I bring a message of hope. I believe that God has a plan for this country and our region. And I also believe that President Museveni is on a mission to transform Uganda,” he said, receiving cheers of agreement.
Echodu said that people had waited long enough and that now was the time for meaningful action.
“We cannot keep pretending everything is fine. The time for patience is over. We need to move from words to action,” he declared, as the crowd responded with thunderous applause.
He also called on the people of Eastern Uganda—and the country at large—to come together in unity, saying that real progress can only be achieved through collective effort.
“We are tired of suffering. Tired of being unemployed and struggling to make ends meet. But we can turn things around if we stand together,” he said. He delivered his message in both English and local languages to ensure everyone present could understand him clearly.
Echodu firmly spoke out against corruption and pledged to bring a new kind of leadership—one that is honest, people-focused, and dedicated to real results.
“We are tired of leaders who shift blame while our communities suffer. That chapter must come to an end,” he said to loud approval from the audience.
The public meeting brought together a wide mix of people, including youth organizations, religious and cultural leaders, women’s groups, and local government representatives. Organizers described it as one of the most attended public events in Eastern Uganda in recent memory. Many believe it may be the beginning of major political changes as the 2026 elections approach.
In a gesture that was both generous and well received, Echodu donated Shs500,000 to each of 13 village savings groups from Soroti City East and West. Additionally, two boda boda associations each received Shs4 million. As he handed over the contributions, he urged the groups to become agents of change.
“Be champions of development. Support the President. Let’s work together to make Uganda a country we are proud to live in,” he said.
Although Echodu expressed full support for President Museveni’s development agenda, his renewed push for leadership within the NRM has been seen as a sign that significant shifts are happening within the party, especially in Eastern Uganda. As one youth leader put it, “The wind is changing direction.”
With the 2026 elections on the horizon and the race for key NRM positions intensifying, Echodu’s homecoming was more than just a welcome ceremony. It may have set in motion a new wave of energy, unity, and leadership across the region.
