Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma Becomes Tooro King in Uganda

Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma has been crowned as the 13th Monarch of Uganda’s Tooro Kingdom, taking over from the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away on August 27 at the age of 34. Kijanangoma, aged 56, was selected by a 21-member committee from the royal Babiito clan and was formally crowned King Edward Rukidi Nyabongo on a Tuesday in Fort Portal.

The succession was contested by Oyo’s mother, Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, and his sister, Princess Ruth Komuntale, who claimed the late king left a young son as heir. Despite these claims, the Babiito clan asserted that they adhered to customary procedures in selecting Kijanangoma.

The coronation ceremony included traditional rites and a symbolic mock battle, with thousands of subjects and guests present, including President Yoweri Museveni. Kijanangoma's reign is expected to focus on preserving the cultural heritage of the Tooro Kingdom while addressing contemporary issues affecting its people.