King Oyo's Burial Sparks Succession Dispute in Uganda

King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, recognized as the world’s youngest monarch, was buried on Saturday in Fort Portal, Uganda, after passing away at the age of 34 while undergoing cancer treatment in the United States. He reigned over the Tooro Kingdom for 31 years, ascending the throne at just three years old.

His death has led to a contentious succession battle, with his mother alleging that she and other royal family members were placed under house arrest. The Babiito royal clan announced Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, a news anchor for UBC, as the new king, a decision opposed by Princess Ruth Komuntale, the late king’s sister.

She claimed the late king had designated a biological son as heir in a will drafted in 2022, although this son was not recognized by the Tooro elite. During the burial, President Yoweri Museveni called for unity among the Batoro people, urging peaceful resolution of the succession issue.