Unbelievable!! Thousands of Supporters Turn Up for Mr. Calvin Echodu’s Grand Home Welcome

A huge crowd gathered at Soroti Sports Ground on Saturday to welcome Calvin Echodu in a memorable homecoming event that turned into a powerful demonstration of public support. What started as a joyous celebration quickly took on deeper meaning, with many saying it signaled a possible turning point for the future of Eastern Uganda.

Calvin Echodu, who recently announced his candidacy for the position of NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, gave a passionate and heartfelt speech. His words strongly connected with the people, especially as he spoke about the everyday challenges they face. The crowd responded with loud cheers and applause throughout his address.

“I know some of you came here without having eaten lunch or even breakfast. I know these are difficult times,” Echodu said at the beginning of his speech, showing he was aware of the economic struggles that many in the region are experiencing.

“But I want to bring you a message today—there is hope. God has a plan for our region and our country. And President Museveni has a mission to see Uganda transformed,” he added, offering both encouragement and direction.

He went on to say that the days of “empty promises” must come to an end and called on people to be part of the change they want to see.

“We cannot keep pretending. The time for waiting has passed. We must now act and move forward together,” Echodu declared, drawing more cheers from the excited crowd.

Echodu also spoke about the importance of unity among the people of Eastern Uganda and the nation as a whole. He stressed that real change could only come if people worked together and supported one another.

“We are tired of the pain. We are tired of being unemployed, of not being able to meet our daily needs. But together, we can change our situation,” he said. Throughout his speech, Echodu moved between English and local languages to make sure his message was clear and understood by everyone present.

He strongly criticized corruption and promised a new kind of leadership—one built on honesty, accountability, and a real focus on improving the lives of ordinary people.

“We are tired of leaders who point fingers while our communities suffer. That time is over,” he said, and the crowd responded with loud support.

The homecoming event brought together a wide range of people, including cultural leaders, youth groups, women’s savings associations, religious leaders, and local government officials. According to the organizers, it was one of the largest public gatherings in the region in recent years. Many believe it could signal a significant shift ahead of the 2026 general elections.

In a generous and thoughtful gesture, Echodu donated Shs500,000 to each of 13 village savings groups from Soroti City East and West. He also gave Shs4 million to each of two local boda boda associations. While handing over the donations, he encouraged the groups with a strong message:

“Be champions of change. Support the President’s efforts. Together, we can make Uganda a better place for all of us,” he said.

During the meeting, Echodu also showed his full support for President Museveni’s development programs. With his growing popularity and strong entry into the race for a leadership role on the NRM Central Executive Committee, many observers believe change is on the way for the party in Eastern Uganda. As one youth leader said after the event, “The wind is changing direction.”

As the 2026 elections approach and competition for CEC positions becomes more intense, Echodu’s well-attended homecoming is shaping up to be much more than just a warm welcome. It could be the beginning of a new chapter for the region and a new wave of leadership in the East.