Captain Mike Mukula, a senior member of Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), has announced his withdrawal from the race for National Vice Chairman (Eastern Region), citing a campaign process riddled with corruption and voter bribery.
In a statement released on Monday, Mukula, who currently serves as the Eastern Region Vice Chairman, said he had made a “difficult but principled decision” after careful reflection. He explained that participating in a process marred by bribery and the reckless spending of money would amount to “legitimizing illegality” and endorsing practices he fundamentally opposes.
Mukula described the alleged activities as a direct threat to the values, spirit, and historical mission of the NRM. He warned that such practices “erode the moral fabric of our Movement” and risk delegitimizing the party’s internal democratic processes. His withdrawal is being seen as a strong protest against the commercialization of politics within the ruling party.
The veteran politician, who also served as Soroti Municipality MP, stressed that his decision was an act of conviction and political maturity, not weakness. He called on NRM Chairman President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Central Executive Committee (CEC), and the party’s Electoral Commission to urgently address these challenges and restore integrity to the party’s internal elections.
Mukula urged the NRM to reclaim its moral authority by tackling voter bribery, the excessive use of money in campaigns, and other vices that undermine trust in the party. He said reforms are necessary to safeguard internal democracy, inspire confidence, and protect the party’s values.
Despite stepping down from the race, Mukula reaffirmed his loyalty to the NRM and President Museveni. He pledged to continue serving Uganda in any capacity, guided by principles of patriotism, integrity, and service above self.
The NRM Electoral Commission has not yet commented on Mukula’s withdrawal or the allegations he raised. His sudden exit is expected to reshape the dynamics of the Eastern Region race and has sparked widespread debate on social media about the influence of money and the integrity of political processes in Uganda.
