By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
FORT PORTAL
The week-long uncertainty over who will succeed the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV has ended, with the Babiito Royal Clan electing UBC TV news anchor Prince Edward Kijanangoma Rukidi as the new Omukama of Tooro Kingdom.
The announcement was made Wednesday evening at Karuziika Palace by the kingdom’s succession committee, led by the Chief Prince and head of the Babiito clan, Omusuuga Charles Kamurasi. Monsignor Isiah Mayombo read the resolution on behalf of the clan leaders.
The decision follows the death of Omukama Oyo, who died on August 27, 2026, at the age of 34 while receiving cancer treatment in the United States. Oyo, who ascended the throne in 1995 at the age of three, was the world’s youngest reigning monarch at the time and ruled Tooro for more than three decades.
His death triggered an intense succession debate. While many speculated that the late King’s heir, whose identity the Palace said would be revealed according to custom, would take the throne, the 21-member Ababiito clan committee constituted to identify a suitable candidate conducted consultations and due diligence before settling on Prince Kijanangoma.
In its resolution, the committee stated that the Ababiito clan is responsible for choosing the king of Tooro and that after considering the available options, it had settled on Prince Kijanangoma.
Prince Edward is the son of the late Prince Christopher Paul Kijanangoma and grandson of the late Omukama Sir George David Rukidi Kamurasi III.
Away from the palace, the 36-year-old Prince has been known to the public as a news anchor and editor at Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC).
His election closes a period of speculation that had seen several names circulated, including George Kamurasi Desmond David, and reports of a biological son left behind by the late King.
However, the succession decision has also raised questions over provisions contained in the late King Oyo’s 2022 will, which reportedly designated his son as first heir, followed by Prince Komwiswa Yoweri and others.
Preparations are now underway for the burial of Omukama Oyo at the Tooro Royal Tombs on Saturday, September 12, followed by the traditional rites and formal enthronement of the new Omukama, Rukidi V.
