FORT PORTAL — Several prominent members of the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV’s immediate family did not attend the coronation of Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I as the new King of Tooro, amid a continuing dispute over the succession.
Among those absent from Tuesday’s coronation at Karuziika Palace were Princess Ruth Komuntale, Oyo’s elder sister; Princess Elizabeth Bagaya, their paternal aunt; and former Queen Mother Best Kemigisa.
Princes Patrick Mpuuga and Solomon Nyaika, sons of Musuuga Charles Kamurasi, were also absent.
Their absence followed public disagreement over the selection of Nyabongo as Oyo’s successor.
A 21-member Babiito royal clan succession committee announced Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the successor to Oyo on September 9. He was subsequently enthroned as Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I on Tuesday.
Members of Oyo’s family, however, had publicly challenged the decision, saying the late King had left a will naming his son as his preferred successor.
Oyo died on August 27, 2026, aged 34, bringing to an end his 29-year reign.
Nyabongo, who is a grandson of former Tooro King Sir George Rukidi III, was selected following consultations within the Babiito royal clan.
The succession dispute did not prevent the coronation ceremony, which was attended by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, government officials, cultural leaders and other dignitaries.
Museveni congratulated Nyabongo and recalled watching him present news on Uganda Broadcasting Corporation television before he became king.
Government officials subsequently welcomed the new monarch.
Vice President Jessica Alupo congratulated Nyabongo on his enthronement and extended her good wishes to the King, Queen, royal family and people of Tooro.
“May God bless His Royal Majesty the King and the Queen, the royal family and all people of Tooro,” Alupo said.
Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao also congratulated Nyabongo, saying the ministry would continue supporting the kingdom and its people in advancing justice, peace, constitutionalism and good governance.
The absence of some of Oyo’s close family members nevertheless highlighted the unresolved disagreement over the succession as Nyabongo began his reign.
Nyabongo, in his inaugural address, pledged to work for the people of Tooro, promote unity and preserve the kingdom’s culture and traditions while working with the central government and other institutions on development.
The new king also called for cooperation among the people of Tooro and urged support for education, employment, cultural preservation and environmental protection.
The succession dispute is expected to remain a significant issue for the kingdom as the new reign begins.
