Jubilation has erupted across social media platforms in Teso and parts of the wider sub-region following the appointment of businessman and National Resistance Movement (NRM) mobiliser Calvin Echodu to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s new Cabinet.
The appointment comes as part of a major Cabinet reshuffle in which several senior ministers were dropped while new figures were elevated to key positions in government.
Residents, youth groups, and NRM supporters in Soroti and surrounding districts on Tuesday welcomed Echodu’s elevation, describing it as a significant political breakthrough for the Teso sub-region.
President Museveni unveiled the new Cabinet for the 2026–2031 term, retaining some senior officials while introducing new appointments aimed at strengthening his administration. The reshuffle has sparked nationwide debate following the exit of several long-serving ministers and the rise of new political actors within the ruling party structure.
In Teso, attention quickly centred on Echodu, whose appointment was widely celebrated by supporters who said the region had regained stronger representation in central government.
“This is a proud moment for Teso. Echodu has been active in empowering youth and supporting government programmes. We believe his appointment will help amplify the voice of our people at the national level,” said a supporter in a WhatsApp group in Soroti City.
Political analysts say the appointment could further strengthen the NRM’s influence in eastern Uganda ahead of the next political cycle, particularly in areas where the ruling party has been consolidating support.
The new Cabinet also saw several prominent figures from the region miss out on ministerial positions, including former State Minister for Finance Hellen Adoa, former State Minister Musa Ecweru, former Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among, and Jeje Odongo, who previously served as Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Meanwhile, President Museveni retained Jessica Rose Epel Alupo as Vice President and Robinah Nabbanja as Prime Minister.
The reshuffle is expected to shape Uganda’s political and administrative direction over the next five years as the new Cabinet begins its term.
