Govt Denies House Arrest Claims Against Tooro Queen Mother

Reports circulating on social media alleging that the Queen Mother of Tooro, Best Kemigisha, has been placed under house arrest have been officially dismissed by the government. State Minister for Internal Affairs, Juma Waneze, stated that these claims are untrue and urged the public to exercise restraint and respect the royal family during this sensitive period.

Minister Waneze explained that the security deployment around the palace was a precautionary measure, anticipating potential unrest rather than an attempt to restrict the Queen Mother’s movements. He highlighted the significant international media presence in the area, drawn by the upcoming funeral of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, and appealed for responsible reporting.

These statements come in response to a communication attributed to Queen Mother Best Kemigisha, dated September 10, 2026. In it, she claimed that security forces had surrounded the palace, preventing members of the royal family and visitors from entering or leaving freely. She appealed to military leadership and President Museveni to allow the family to mourn and bury the late King peacefully.

Kemigisha had also alleged that royal guards were removed from the palace prior to the King’s burial by Maj Gen Kayanja Muhanga, followed by the deployment of troops. She further claimed the head of the Babiito royal clan was taken to an undisclosed location. The government has not confirmed these specific allegations, maintaining that security was increased due to concerns over possible disturbances.

The conflicting accounts emerge amidst internal divisions within the Tooro Kingdom following the passing of King Oyo on August 26, 2026, in the United States. His remains are scheduled for burial at the Karambi Royal Tombs on Saturday. The government has called for calm and asked the public to avoid spreading unverified information as the kingdom prepares for the final rites.

Source: Nile Post