By Spy Uganda
Kampala – Capt. Dr. Mike Mukula, the current NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, has issued a stern warning against what he termed “trial-and-error politics” as the party gears up for its Central Executive Committee (CEC) elections in August.
Addressing the media in Kampala, Mukula reaffirmed his commitment to defending his seat and criticized what he described as a surge of inexperienced aspirants seeking to ascend to the NRM’s highest decision-making body without the necessary credentials or leadership background.
“Leadership is earned, not improvised,” Mukula emphasized. “Some of the aspirants have never even served at LC1 level or as district councillors. You can’t start climbing a tree from the top. CEC is not a testing ground for political experiments.”
A seasoned politician, entrepreneur, and former health minister, Mukula laid out his rich leadership journey as evidence of his qualification to continue serving. From his early days as an LC1 chairperson through to roles as MP, minister, and now a senior NRM figure, he has played a vital part in shaping Uganda’s political landscape.
He pointed to critical moments such as organizing the Arrow Boys to repel the LRA in Teso and his humanitarian missions during the Rwandan genocide in 1994 as examples of his leadership under pressure.
“These are not anecdotes. These are real sacrifices that define authentic leadership,” he said.
Mukula also voiced concern over alleged foreign interests infiltrating the party by propping up certain candidates with ulterior motives. Drawing parallels with colonial history, he warned: “Africa was enslaved for over 400 years because of collaborators. We cannot afford to let imperial agents disrupt the NRM from within.”
Highlighting his role in the 2021 general elections, Mukula recounted how he personally mobilized support for President Museveni in Eastern Uganda using his private helicopter during COVID-19 lockdowns.
“We faced a strong NUP wave, but I flew across the region to deliver the NRM message directly. That effort paid off,” Mukula noted, citing a sweeping victory in Eastern Uganda where the NRM clinched 97 parliamentary seats, compared to NUP’s two, FDC’s 11, and one for JEEMA.
He also highlighted the presence of 26 NRM-leaning independents, underscoring the party’s continued dominance in the region.
Invoking the spirit of competitive sports, Mukula compared himself to football legend Cristiano Ronaldo: “You don’t bench your best striker. President Museveni needs to be surrounded by tested leaders. I deliver every time I’m on the pitch.”
As the race for the CEC intensifies, Mukula framed the contest as a choice between proven leadership and uncertain populism. He pledged to mount a robust campaign based on loyalty, vision, and a solid track record.
Why the CEC Matters
The Central Executive Committee of the NRM functions as the strategic nerve center of the party—its ideological engine room. It is responsible for:
Policy formulation and review
Providing advisory oversight and political direction (“Eyes on, hands off”)
Coordinating party structures at all levels
Advising the Chairman and guiding government alignment
Resolving internal conflicts and disciplinary matters
In essence, it is the party’s think tank—tasked with upholding the NRM’s foundational pillars and ensuring ideological consistency.
Who Is the Ideal CEC Candidate?
Mukula laid out his view of the ideal leader for CEC:
An experienced bridge-builder between NRM’s historical figures and the younger generation
A loyal and visionary cadre who understands both party ideology and grassroots dynamics
A politically mature, focused leader—not one learning on the job
A team player with deep understanding of both high-level party operations and on-the-ground realities
And by that description, Mukula made it clear—he is that candidate.
