culture 8 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Museveni Dispatches Minister Tumukunde to Oversee Tooro King's Burial Preparations
President Museveni has appointed Minister Henry Tumukunde to manage the final preparations and address any lingering issues surrounding the burial of the late Tooro King, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. The visit aims to ensure a dignified send-off and government support for the kingdom's processes. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/museveni-sends-tumukunde-to-ease-lingering-issues-in-tooro-5587532
President Yoweri Museveni has delegated Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development, Henry Tumukunde, to Tooro Kingdom to oversee the arrangements for the burial of the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.
Minister Tumukunde arrived in Fort Portal City, the kingdom’s seat, stating his role extends beyond his ministerial duties to acting as the President’s representative. President Museveni, who had a close relationship with King Oyo since his childhood, directed Tumukunde to ensure the government addresses any outstanding matters concerning the burial before the scheduled event on Saturday.
“I am not here as a minister only but as someone delegated by the President of Uganda, because King Oyo has been his child,” Tumukunde remarked, emphasizing the President’s deep concern for the King and the kingdom.
King Oyo passed away on August 27 at the age of 34, after a reign of over three decades. Tumukunde described his death as a significant loss for both Tooro Kingdom and Uganda, highlighting the new light Oyo brought to the region.
The minister was briefed that burial preparations are advancing smoothly, with the government collaborating with the kingdom to finalize all arrangements. He commended the organizing committees and the head of the royal clan, Omujwera Musuuga Charles Kamurasi, for their efforts in managing the process without conflict.
Discussions are scheduled to address any remaining issues, ensuring that everything is resolved by Saturday. Tumukunde urged all stakeholders, including the media and the Batooro people, to cooperate during these final stages.
This visit occurs as uncertainty lingers regarding the identity of King Oyo’s successor. The Babiito royal clan has formed a 21-member committee to manage the succession process, chaired by Charles Kamurasi. Conflicting reports about whether the late king left a direct male heir have added complexity to the situation. Clan spokesperson Moses Musinguzi indicated that the rituals surrounding the burial itself might offer clues to the next king’s identity.
King Oyo was enthroned in 1995 at the age of three and reigned for over 30 years, becoming one of Uganda’s longest-serving monarchs post-restoration. His regency period ended in 2010 when he assumed full administrative responsibilities.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)