- King Oyo Nyimba died from cancer at age 34 in August without a publicly known heir.
- The Babiito clan selected Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma from a pool of eligible princes after King Oyo's death.
- Queen mother Best Kemigisa disputed the selection, claiming the late king's will was not followed and alleging that Oyo left behind a son.
- The government backed the Babiito's choice, allowing the coronation to proceed.
- Kijanangoma performed rituals overnight and was set to be formally unveiled as king on Tuesday.
- The coronation ceremony in Fort Portal is expected to be watched by thousands in person and on televised broadcasts.
- Traditional kingdoms in Uganda were banned in the 1960s but restored in 1993, and while they lack formal authority, they hold significant cultural influence.
- The selection process for the new king has been controversial, with claims that a recognized son of the late king should succeed him.
- Queen Kemigisa has argued that the late king's will should have been respected, stating that Oyo left behind a young son.
- Despite the claims of Oyo's alleged son, he has not been publicly recognized or presented to the kingdom's elders.
Tooro Kingdom is preparing to crown Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, a journalist, as king following the death of King Oyo last month. Oyo, who died at 34, was crowned at just three years old, becoming the world's youngest monarch. His death has sparked a succession dispute as his mother, Queen Best Kemigisa, claims he left behind a son who should inherit the throne.3
The Babiito clan, responsible for selecting the new king, chose Nyabongo despite his lower position in the line of succession. The queen mother argues that the selection process ignored Oyo's will, which purportedly named his son as the rightful heir. Kemigisa expressed her pain over the situation, stating, “As a mother, that was extraordinarily painful,” as celebrations for the new king occurred near her son's body.28
The Tooro kingdom's information minister stated that the alleged son has not been presented publicly, suggesting a growing acceptance that Oyo may not have left a son. The government has backed Nyabongo's coronation, with Attorney General Sam Mayanja confirming there were no formal complaints against him. The president's son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, also expressed support, stating, “Long may he reign.”4
The coronation ceremony, set to take place in Fort Portal, will be attended by thousands and includes traditional rituals, marking a significant moment in the kingdom's history amidst ongoing controversy.6
“The coronation follows the Babiito clan's selection of Nyabongo, which Queen Best Kemigisa disputes, citing King Oyo's will and an unrevealed son. The government has backed the choice, with Attorney General Sam Mayanja confirming no formal complaint was filed.”
BBC
