Mukula Breaks Silence, Defends Son’s Bid and Pledges Unshaken Loyalty to Museveni

Senior National Resistance Movement (NRM) figure Capt. Mike Mukula has strongly dismissed claims that he is working against his party, describing the accusations as a deliberate smear meant to discredit his long-standing political record and weaken party cohesion ahead of the 2026 elections. Speaking from Soroti City, Mukula said the narrative being pushed by his critics is both misleading and politically motivated.

Mukula explained that his son, Rodney Akongel Mukula, opted to contest for the Soroti City East Division parliamentary seat as an independent candidate, not in defiance of the NRM, but out of consideration for internal party harmony. He noted that the decision was made independently and responsibly, with the intention of avoiding friction during party primaries.

He emphasized that his son’s political identity remains firmly rooted in the NRM, insisting that his values, upbringing, and ideology are aligned with the movement. According to Mukula, allowing his son the freedom to make a personal political choice should not be twisted into accusations of betrayal or sabotage.

The veteran politician argued that participation in elections is a constitutional right and a cornerstone of democracy, a principle the NRM itself has consistently promoted. He said supporting a family member’s democratic choice does not contradict party loyalty, but rather reflects respect for democratic freedoms within a broad political system.

Mukula further rejected claims that his actions undermine President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, reiterating his total commitment to the President and the NRM leadership. He stated that his focus remains on mobilizing support for Museveni and ensuring the party’s success in the upcoming general elections.

Addressing allegations of secret meetings, inducements, and manipulation of party structures, Mukula dismissed them as outright fabrications designed to damage his reputation. He said no promises, bribes, or parallel arrangements have been made, describing the accusations as classic character assassination driven by internal rivalries.

He warned that internal attacks and suspicion risk weakening the party at a critical moment, urging leaders and supporters to prioritize unity and shared purpose over personal grudges. In his view, internal cohesion is essential if the NRM is to maintain its political dominance.

Mukula concluded by calling for tolerance within the party, arguing that accommodating diverse political paths—so long as they align with NRM principles—strengthens rather than weakens the movement. As the 2026 elections draw closer, he said, the party’s true test will be its ability to remain united while respecting democratic choice, all in pursuit of victory for President Museveni and the NRM.