Editorial
The Government has formally confirmed Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as successor to the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi the Fourth, paving the way for his coronation as the 13th Omukama of Tooro. The ceremony is set for Tuesday, September 29, at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City.
The Minister of State for Gender and Cultural Affairs, Mary Kuteesa Kamuli, made the announcement yesterday at the Uganda Media Cente, saying that Government had received official communication from Tooro Kingdom confirming that the succession process was complete, and followed the kingdom’s established customs after King Oyo’s death on August 27.
According to the minister, the Babiito Clan, led by Omusuuga Charles Kayondo Kamurasi Akiiki, selected Prince Edward on September 9 at Karuziika Palace. He was later presented to and endorsed by the Rukurato Rw’Obukama Bwa Tooro the kingdom’s Supreme Council which met on September 15. He has since assumed the official name Edward Rukidi Nyaboongo the First, Omukama w’Obukama Bwa Tooro.
Kamuli said Government’s role is guided by Article 246 of the Constitution and the Institution of Traditional or Cultural Leaders Act of 2011. The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development is now processing the Gazette notice to formally declare and publish the new king’s status.
President Yoweri Museveni is expected to attend the coronation, after personally assuring the people of Tooro he would honour their invitation.
The minister described the event as a major cultural moment for both Tooro and Uganda, one expected to boost cultural tourism.
She called on Ugandans to approach the occasion with peace, unity, dignity and respect, and urged the media to give accurate and balanced coverage.