State Minister for Lands Margaret Muhanga has expressed confidence that Tooro's King-designate Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I will work to reunite members of the royal family following years of reported divisions within the institution. Muhanga, a cousin of the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, believes the incoming King can bring members of the wider royal family together and restore a stronger sense of unity at Karuziika Palace.
Muhanga noted that several descendants of former Tooro kings had started returning to Karuziika following the change in leadership. She cited members of Prince Christopher Paul Kijanangoma's family among those who have returned to the palace. According to Muhanga, previous Tooro royal households accommodated kings' wives, their children, co-wives, and other members of the wider royal family despite the complexities that came with polygamous marriages.
However, Muhanga claimed that during King Oyo's reign, Karuziika Palace became less welcoming to some members of the wider royal family. She said some children and grandchildren of former kings had consequently stayed away from the palace. Muhanga stated that the palace had reverted to just one group of people and was no longer welcoming to the children of former kings and their grandchildren.
Muhanga also expressed concerns about the former kingdom administration, alleging that the institution had been commercialized and that controversial land transactions had affected its reputation. She raised these claims as she discussed what she believes the new leadership should address. Muhanga said she had spoken with Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I and expressed confidence that he would focus on bringing different sections of the royal family and the wider Tooro community together.
Muhanga emphasized that it is time for Tooro to come together, and she is confident that the new king will bring unity and bring the people together. Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I is scheduled to be crowned at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City on September 29, 2026. His selection by the Babiito Royal Clan was later endorsed by the Tooro Supreme Council.
The Government has since affirmed that it is processing Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I's formal recognition in the Uganda Gazette. Muhanga's comments come as the Tooro kingdom prepares for the coronation of its new king. The event is expected to be attended by various dignitaries and members of the royal family.
The new king's coronation is seen as an opportunity for the Tooro kingdom to start anew and work towards unity and development. Muhanga's sentiments reflect the hopes and expectations of many in the Tooro kingdom who are looking forward to a more inclusive and united leadership under the new king.
Key points
- The new Tooro King Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I is expected to bring unity to the royal family.
- The former king, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, had become isolated from his wider paternal family during his reign.
- The Tooro kingdom administration had been commercialized and had controversial land transactions.
