Fort Portal, Uganda - Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, the King of Tooro Kingdom, has reappointed Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki as acting Prime Minister for a six-month transitional period. This move comes as the institution begins a new chapter following the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV in August. The appointment was announced by the King's Principal Personal Secretary and spokesperson, Paul Nyakaana Businge.
Rwomiire, who served as Prime Minister from February 2025 until Oyo's death, has been entrusted with guiding the kingdom through the transition to the new reign. As part of the new leadership structure, Nyabongo also reappointed Prince Charles Kamurasi as head of the Babiito royal clan, known as Musuuga, with Bernard Kato Rwakatale as his assistant. This reappointment aims to ensure a smooth transition and maintain stability within the kingdom.
The King has also appointed an 11-member advisory committee to advise and support the administration as it takes forward the affairs of the kingdom. The committee comprises 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 supporting the administration during the transitional period.
Speaking after his reappointment, Rwomiire thanked Nyabongo for entrusting him with another opportunity to serve the kingdom. He called for support from the royal family, kingdom leaders, and the people of Tooro as he begins his second term under the new reign. Rwomiire emphasized that he had accepted the responsibility with utmost seriousness and was committed to working tirelessly for the kingdom's progress.
Rwomiire revealed that he had already constituted a cabinet and presented it to the King for consideration, which he would work with during the six-month transitional period. He also thanked ministers who served in his previous cabinet and paid tribute to the late Omukama Oyo for allowing him to serve during his reign. This move demonstrates Rwomiire's readiness to hit the ground running and ensure a seamless transition.
The administration plans to prioritize clearing salary arrears owed to staff working at the kingdom's administrative offices in Muchwa and strengthening systems within the kingdom administration. Additionally, they aim to complete incubation hubs established under the Tooro Youth Empowerment Project and expand programs aimed at creating opportunities for young people. These initiatives are expected to have a positive impact on the kingdom's development and growth.
Rwomiire also pledged to strengthen accountability and ensure that kingdom resources and programs are properly managed. He called on the people of Tooro to remain united and work with the King, emphasizing that the kingdom had entered a new chapter that required cooperation among its subjects and leaders. The changes came about a week after Nyabongo was formally crowned as successor to Omukama Oyo, who died in August at the age of 34 while receiving treatment in the United States.
Key points
- Rwomiire's reappointment aims to ensure a smooth transition and maintain stability within the kingdom.
- The administration plans to prioritize clearing salary arrears and strengthening systems within the kingdom administration.
- Rwomiire pledged to strengthen accountability and ensure proper management of kingdom resources and programs.
