UPDF Denies Royal Guard Withdrawal Amidst Tooro Succession Tensions

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has issued a statement denying allegations that it has withdrawn the traditional Tooro Royal Guards from Karuziika Royal Palace or placed members of the royal family under house arrest. The clarification comes in response to accusations made by the Queen Mother, Best Kemigisa, who had stated that the palace’s security had been altered and royal family members’ movements restricted.

UPDF spokesperson Colonel Chris Magezi stated that the royal guards have not been withdrawn and that claims of a lockdown at the palace are untrue. Instead, the UPDF explained that its enhanced presence is a precautionary measure due to the large number of attendees expected for the burial of the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. The military also cited security concerns related to the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as a reason for increased vigilance.

“The UPDF is not privy to or involved in the succession processes currently ongoing in the Tooro Kingdom,” Magezi clarified. He added that the reinforcement of security around the palace and its surroundings was a decision made by UPDF leadership due to the magnitude of the event and proximity to regional security threats.

Additional security measures, including close monitoring of movements and thorough checks at access points, have been implemented to ensure the safety of everyone present. These developments occur as the Tooro Kingdom prepares for the burial of King Oyo, which is scheduled for Saturday, September 12th. The period has also been marked by disagreements over the royal succession, with different factions announcing potential heirs, adding to the existing tensions.

The UPDF confirmed that its Commander Land Forces, Lt General Kayanja Muhanga, visited the palace to pay respects and inspect the work being done by the UPDF Engineering Brigade at the royal tombs and on roads leading to the burial site. The army expressed satisfaction with the progress and reiterated its commitment to providing necessary security support during this period of mourning.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/370239/updf-denies-withdrawing-tooro-royal-guards