Calvin Echodu’s much-anticipated homecoming event in Teso was meant to mark his return with renewed energy and political purpose.

But the event, instead of signaling strength, revealed growing cracks in his support base. Notably absent were Teso’s Members of Parliament, LC5 chairpersons, and top NRM district officials raising questions about his standing within the region’s political landscape.

Only a handful of NRM subcounty chairpersons were in attendance, some reportedly brought in from Tubur, Katine, and Dakabela. The lone prominent figure present was Hon. Esenu, MP for Kapelbyong and a fellow member of Pilgrim Africa, whose presence seemed more personal than political.

Observers described the event as subdued, with Echodu struggling to rally the crowd or communicate a clear political agenda. Those in attendance noted his discomfort and apparent inability to energize the gathering leading some to speculate whether he was losing touch with the grassroots.

More damaging, however, are the controversies that continue to trail him. Allegations of land grabbing ranging from the disputed Golf Club land in Soroti to large tracts in Katakwi titled under his mother’s name have cast a shadow over his public image.

Critics also cite the failed takeover attempts of public institutions like Teso College and Soroti University as signs of overreach and poor judgment.

Echodu’s detractors argue that he has struggled to translate influence into tangible political success. His failure to secure Soroti West for the NRM, resulting in an embarrassing defeat to FDC’s Patrick Amuriat, remains a sore point within the ruling party. Some insiders believe he surrounds himself with the wrong people Individuals more interested in financial gain than public service further weakening his prospects.

For now, Calvin Echodu remains a polarizing figure in Teso politics. Whether he can rebuild trust and reposition himself as a unifying force remains to be seen. His recent homecoming may not have achieved its intended impact, but it has certainly opened a new chapter one that will test both his resilience and political maturity.