King Oyo to be Laid to Rest on 31st Coronation Anniversary

Tooro Kingdom is preparing to lay its late monarch, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, to rest on September 12. This date holds particular significance as it falls exactly 31 years after his ascension to the throne in 1995, at the tender age of three. The decision means that the kingdom will observe the anniversary of his coronation, a day traditionally marked by celebration, with the solemnity of his burial.

King Oyo’s reign, spanning over three decades, was characterized by dedicated efforts to preserve the rich traditions of Tooro while simultaneously championing its cultural, social, and economic development. His passing marks the end of an era for the kingdom.

The burial arrangements were formally announced by Charles Kamurasi, head of the royal clan, following a gathering with Tooro clan heads at the royal palace in Karisika, Fort Portal. Kamurasi detailed that the King’s body is scheduled to arrive from Entebbe to Fort Portal on Friday morning.

While there were considerations for public viewing of the body at other locations, the royal family has opted to keep the remains at the royal palace. A special protocol has been arranged for President Yoweri Museveni, who will be the sole individual permitted to pay his respects at Entebbe upon the body’s arrival, as per the President’s request. Museveni, as head of state and a former regent for King Oyo, will be accorded this unique honor.

However, Tooro Kingdom’s prime minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomire, provided a slightly different account of the procession. He stated that after President Museveni’s tribute, the body will travel by road to Kyegegwa district. From there, a procession will escort the casket on its final journey to the royal palace in Fort Portal, commencing the series of traditional and official funeral rites culminating in the burial.