King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV of the traditional Tooro kingdom in western Uganda was laid to rest on Saturday. The 34-year-old monarch, who had ruled since age three and held the distinction of being the world’s youngest reigning monarch according to Guinness World Records, died last month while receiving cancer treatment in the United States.
Thousands of individuals lined streets in Fort Portal as the king’s casket made its way to the royal tombs, where a private burial ceremony took place. During the funeral rites, TV news presenter Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, 56, reportedly performed a traditional ritual by casting nine coffee beans into the grave, a symbolic act marking the conclusion of one reign and the beginning of another. Kijanangoma, a cousin of the deceased monarch, had been named as successor by clan elders.
The succession decision has generated significant family controversy. The late king’s family has rejected Kijanangoma’s appointment, citing a will reportedly written in 2022 in which Oyo named his young son as heir. The identity of the child has not been made public. Queen Best Kemigisa, the late king’s mother, claimed that royal guards were removed from the palace and soldiers deployed in their place, a situation she characterized as restricting the family’s movements and ability to receive visitors.
Leaders have appealed for reconciliation amid the tensions. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, cautioned mourners that statements made during grief could foster division and damage the legacy of the departed king. President Yoweri Museveni similarly urged resolution of the matter with emphasis on unity rather than division.
The Babiito royal clan’s leadership defended the selection of Kijanangoma, with head Omusuuga Charles Karumasi stating that the process adhered to Tooro’s cultural and traditional practices. Tooro represents one of Uganda’s traditional kingdoms, which were abolished in 1967 but restored during the 1990s under President Museveni’s administration. These monarchs function as recognized cultural leaders rather than holding political authority.
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