Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu Campaigns for NRM Candidate, Says Opposing Government is “Work of the Devil”
SOROTI, UGANDA – December 11, 2025 – In a heated parliamentary campaign rally, Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, delivered a scathing message to opposition supporters, stating that opposing the government is equivalent to “doing the work of the devil.” The rally, held in Orwadai Ward, was part of the campaign trail for NRM parliamentary candidate David Calvin Echodu.
Addressing thousands of electorates, Gen. Elwelu began by expressing gratitude to God for the gift of life and for sustaining the people of Soroti City. He then proclaimed that opposition against the government started in heaven, and that those who continuously fight established authority hinder development.
“Whoever is opposing government today is doing the work of the devil,” Gen. Elwelu said, urging voters to choose leaders with influence, networks, and capacity. He challenged residents of Soroti City West to reflect on what progress opposition leaders had delivered over the years, emphasizing that the upcoming election is not for “playing or politics as usual,” but for preparing for the future.
The retired general warned that President Museveni’s seventh term, which the NRM is aggressively mobilizing for, would be strictly about service delivery, not personal benefit or patronage. “Gone are the days of voting leaders to eat. This term is not for eating, it is for service. If you have been playing, I want to tell you, playing is over,” he said.
Gen. Elwelu declared that after conducting independent assessments, he found Echodu to be the most suitable candidate not only for Soroti City West but for the entire Teso region. He criticized other politicians in Teso for promoting division and tribal differences, saying that such leaders undermine the region’s potential.
Meanwhile, David Calvin Echodu praised Gen. Elwelu for standing by him and assured the electorate that once given the mandate, he would ensure all government pledges to Soroti City West are fulfilled. Echodu emphasized that Soroti City West needs development-driven leadership, not tribal rhetoric or false promises.
The Orwadai rally showcased a united NRM front in Soroti City, with various groups pledging their support for Echodu. As Echodu’s campaign trail continues, NRM strategists believe Gen. Elwelu’s powerful endorsement could significantly shift momentum in their favor.
The parliamentary elections in Uganda are expected to be highly competitive, with various candidates vying for seats in the Teso sub-region. The NRM party, led by President Museveni, is seeking to consolidate its power and deliver on its development agenda. The opposition, however, is determined to challenge the ruling party’s dominance and bring about change.
As the campaign season heats up, voters in Soroti City West and across the country will be closely watching the candidates and their promises, weighing their options carefully before casting their ballots. The outcome of the elections will have significant implications for the future of Uganda and its people.
Hon.David Echodu Calvin is yet to face some of the opposition candidates in the 2026 general election. Scheduled to take place on the 15th, January 2026.