Musuuga's Sons Dispute Tooro King Succession, Back Different Heir

Two sons of Charles Kamurasi Musuuga, the head of the Babiito royal clan, have publicly rejected the recent announcement naming Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the next King of Tooro. Yoweri Komwiswa Nyaika and Solomon Mpuuga stated that the clan’s selection process ignored the purported will of the late King Oyo.

Speaking to reporters at Karuziika Palace, Nyaika and Mpuuga expressed disappointment with their father’s alleged support for a succession that bypasses King Oyo’s wishes. They claim to have been informed of a different plan following the late King’s passing, only to be surprised by the clan’s decision.

Nyaika further alleged that certain Babiito clan members influenced their father and aimed to undermine the late King’s legacy. He suggested that some involved in the selection were driven by interests in kingdom property and tribal biases.

The brothers also asserted that King Oyo had previously removed their father from his role as Musuuga and appointed Mpuuga in his place. This adds another layer to the unfolding succession dispute that began following King Oyo’s death.

Members of the royal family, including Princesses Ruth Komuntale Nsemere and Elizabeth Bagaya, have also challenged Kijanangoma’s selection, citing a will that reportedly designates Oyo’s son as successor, with Nyaika and Mpuuga as alternates. This has raised questions about the legitimacy of the committee’s decision and the adherence to traditional protocols.

Despite their opposition, Nyaika and Mpuuga appealed for peace and unity within Tooro, emphasizing the need for a resolution that does not divide the kingdom. However, Moses Musinguzi, spokesperson for the Babiito clan, affirmed that the traditional installation process for Kijanangoma would proceed as planned, guided by clan traditions and procedures.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)