Fresh questions have emerged surrounding the recent NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) discussions on President Yoweri Museveni’s succession after Eastern Region CEC Vice Chairman Calvin Echodu publicly revealed the issues he presented to the President. His disclosure has attracted attention because it focuses on regional development priorities rather than the succession debate that has dominated political discussions.

Echodu, who also serves as Soroti City West MP, shared details of his submission in a statement posted on X on Friday. He outlined three major concerns affecting the Teso sub-region, explaining that he had used the opportunity to bring important matters requiring the President’s attention to the table.

One of the issues he raised was growing anxiety among residents of Teso over rumours of a possible rebellion. Echodu said local leaders wanted an opportunity to meet Museveni and discuss the concerns, particularly given the region’s history of insecurity and armed conflict.

The security concerns come at a time when the recent detention of retired Lt Gen Peter Elwelu over alleged subversive activities has attracted attention in the region. Echodu believes the concerns raised by residents deserve attention and an opportunity for direct engagement with the President.

His second concern involved the long-awaited Soroti Regional Referral Hospital project. He called for the Ministry of Education and Sports to issue a letter of no objection to facilitate the transfer of land title to the Ministry of Health, a step considered necessary to clear the way for construction of the facility.

The third issue concerned infrastructure development, with Echodu asking the Ministry of Works and Transport to prioritise the Soroti City bypass in the next national budget. He argued that the project would help reduce traffic congestion, improve connectivity and support economic activities across Teso and the wider Eastern Uganda region.

Interestingly, Echodu’s public explanation did not mention Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Museveni’s succession or any request to endorse a particular individual for the presidency. This has raised questions about reports surrounding what individual CEC members discussed during the recent meetings. However, his statement alone does not establish whether succession was discussed separately or whether he supported or rejected any proposal concerning Muhoozi.

His disclosure adds another dimension to the ongoing political debate, as Ugandans continue to follow developments within the NRM’s top leadership. For now, Echodu has chosen to publicly highlight security, healthcare and infrastructure concerns affecting Teso, leaving questions about his position on the succession debate unanswered.