In a move guided by Tooro cultural practices, women have been barred from participating in the traditional procession that will precede the coronation of Tooro king-designate Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I. The procession is set to begin at 10 pm on Monday night from Rwengoma Palace, pass through Fort Portal City, and end at Karuziika Palace. Richard Rwabuhinga, head of protocol for the coronation organising committee, confirmed the exclusion, citing cultural practices that govern the ritual.
Despite being excluded from the procession, women will be free to attend the church service and participate in the coronation ceremony scheduled for Tuesday. According to the programme, Nyabongo I and his procession are expected to arrive at Karuziika Palace at about 3 am on Tuesday. The king-designate will then face a mock battle at the royal entrance, known as Mugabante, where he is expected to emerge victorious before entering the palace.
Upon entering the palace, Nyabongo I will take his place on the royal throne, and other traditional rituals will be performed. These rituals include the turning upright of royal regalia such as drums and spears that have remained upside down since the death of his predecessor, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. The rituals are expected to continue throughout the night as the kingdom prepares for the formal coronation ceremony.
Preparations at Karuziika Palace were ongoing on Sunday ahead of the historic ceremony. Subjects were still delivering their contributions, known as okuhikya, to the organising committee, while tents were being erected in the palace grounds. The palace was also undergoing repainting and reorganisation as service providers prepared for the large number of guests expected to attend the coronation.
The coronation of Nyabongo I is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, and final preparations were underway to ensure its success. The traditional procession and coronation ceremony are significant events in the Tooro kingdom, marking the ascension of a new king.
According to Rwabuhinga, the decision to exclude women from the procession was made in accordance with Tooro cultural practices. The practices govern various aspects of the coronation rituals, including the procession, and are intended to preserve the kingdom's traditions and customs.
The coronation of Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I marks a significant milestone in the history of the Tooro kingdom. The event is expected to be attended by dignitaries and subjects of the kingdom, who will gather to witness the formal crowning of the new king.
Key points
- Women are barred from participating in the traditional procession preceding the coronation of Tooro king-designate Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I.
