Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, a former journalist with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) and Televiziyo Rwanda, has been crowned the new King of Tooro. The coronation ceremony took place on September 29, 2026, at Fort Portal, and was attended by Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and other dignitaries. Rukidi was chosen by a council of 21 members from the Babiito royal family.
The coronation ceremony was marked by traditional rituals, including the slaughtering of a cow and the pouring of chicken blood. The new king walked to the Karuziika Palace, where he performed a ritual to mark the start of his reign. Rukidi's ascension to the throne comes after a prolonged period of uncertainty following the death of the previous king, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away on August 27, 2026, due to cancer.
Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV had reigned for 34 years and was succeeded by Rukidi after a lengthy selection process. The new king is known for his work as a journalist in Uganda and Rwanda, where he read news in English. Rukidi's appointment was confirmed by the Babiito royal family, which has a long history dating back to the 19th century.
The previous king, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, had faced controversy over his succession, with some members of the royal family questioning his legitimacy. Oyo's mother, Best Kemigisa, and sister, Princess Ruth Komuntale, had claimed that he was not the rightful heir, citing a document that suggested he was not the biological son of the previous king.
Rukidi's coronation was attended by high-ranking officials, including President Museveni, who has maintained close ties with the Tooro kingdom. The new king's reign is expected to be closely watched, given the kingdom's historical significance and cultural importance in Uganda. Rukidi has vowed to promote the kingdom's traditions and cultural heritage.
The Tooro kingdom has a rich history, dating back to the 19th century, and has played a significant role in Ugandan politics and culture. The kingdom's traditions and customs are an integral part of Ugandan heritage, and Rukidi's coronation is seen as a significant event in the country's cultural calendar. The new king is expected to work closely with the Ugandan government to promote the kingdom's interests.
Rukidi's appointment has been met with mixed reactions, with some members of the royal family expressing concerns over his suitability for the role. However, the new king has vowed to work towards unity and stability within the kingdom, and to promote the interests of his people. His coronation marks a new chapter in the history of the Tooro kingdom.
Key points
- Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma was crowned the new King of Tooro on September 29, 2026.
- Rukidi succeeded Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away on August 27, 2026.
- The coronation ceremony was attended by Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and other dignitaries.
