Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I has reappointed Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki as prime minister of Tooro Kingdom for a six-month term. Rwomiire previously served as prime minister under the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. The reappointment was announced by Nyabongo’s principal private secretary and spokesperson, Paul Nyakaana Businge, on Monday. Rwomiire's reappointment is part of the new leadership structure of the kingdom.
In addition to Rwomiire's reappointment, Nyabongo also reappointed Prince Charles Kamurasi as head of the Babiito royal clan, known as Musuuga. Bernard Kato Rwakatale was appointed as Kamurasi's deputy. These appointments aim to solidify the kingdom's leadership and ensure a smooth transition following the death of Omukama Oyo in August. Omukama Oyo was 34 years old when he died in the United States.
Nyabongo has also established an 11-member advisory committee to support and advise his administration. The committee members include Erisa Kakyomya, Chris Kaijuka, Peace Mutuzo, Binta Kasoojo, Monica Rubombora, William Byaruhanga, Aston Kajara, Monsignor Isaiah Mayombo, Flavia Kabahenda, Abdallah Mangalija, and Bernard Tungwako. This committee will play a crucial role in guiding the kingdom's administration during this transitional period.
Rwomiire expressed his gratitude to Nyabongo for entrusting him with another opportunity to serve the kingdom. He emphasized that he accepts the responsibility with utmost seriousness and called for support from the royal family, kingdom leaders, and the people of Tooro. Rwomiire also announced that he had already constituted a cabinet, which he submitted to the king for consideration.
The cabinet will serve during the six-month transitional period, and Rwomiire thanked ministers who served in his previous cabinet. He paid tribute to the late Omukama Oyo for giving him the opportunity to serve during his reign. Rwomiire outlined the administration's priorities, including clearing salary arrears owed to staff at the kingdom's administrative offices in Muchwa.
The administration also plans to complete incubation hubs established under the Tooro Youth Empowerment Project and expand programmes aimed at creating opportunities for young people. Other priorities include organizing the king's visits to all nine counties of Tooro, promoting agriculture, and completing the Masaza tournament. The administration aims to develop a strategic plan for the kingdom and strengthen accountability.
Rwomiire pledged to ensure that kingdom resources and programmes are properly managed. He called on the people of Tooro to remain united and work with the king, emphasizing that the kingdom has entered a new chapter that requires cooperation among its subjects and leaders. The changes come about a week after Nyabongo was formally crowned successor to Omukama Oyo.
Key points
- Rwomiire's administration will prioritize clearing salary arrears and strengthening systems within the kingdom administration.
- The administration plans to complete incubation hubs and expand programmes for young people.
- Rwomiire emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among the people of Tooro and the kingdom's leaders.
