Politics 13 September 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Tooro's Royal Women: A History of Defiance and Throne Protection
The current succession crisis in the Tooro Kingdom echoes a long-standing tradition of powerful matriarchs stepping in to protect the throne during times of uncertainty. From the kingdom's founding to modern-day disputes, women have consistently played pivotal roles in ensuring the continuity of the monarchy. Source: https://observer.ug/news/understanding-tooros-throne-and-its-defiant-women
The Tooro Kingdom is currently experiencing a period of intense royal drama, reminiscent of a 200-year cycle where powerful women have historically secured the throne. Following the recent death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, a power struggle has emerged between clan elders seeking to install a new king and a group of royal women, including the Queen Mother and princesses, who claim to be safeguarding an infant heir mentioned in the late king’s will.
This contemporary standoff mirrors the very foundation of the Tooro Kingdom itself. Around 1822, Prince Kaboyo Kasunsunkwanzi Omuhundwa Olimi established the kingdom with crucial support from his mother and sisters, who orchestrated his escape and rallied loyal fighters. Without their intervention, the secession from Bunyoro would likely have failed.
Throughout Tooro’s history, queens and princesses have repeatedly stepped in to preserve the monarchy. In the late 1800s, Queen Mother Vikitoliya Kahinju played a vital role in the kingdom’s survival after its invasion by Bunyoro. She navigated exile, secured asylum in neighboring kingdoms, and ultimately brokered a deal with Captain Frederick Lugard of the Imperial British East Africa Company, leading to the restoration of her son, King Kasagama Kyebambe IV, in 1891.
Later, Queen Mother Omugo Damali Tibaitwa Adyeri successfully defended her son’s rightful succession against colonial officials and rival factions. The influence of the Batebe (Princess Royal) is also significant, with figures like Princess Maliza Mukakijabara Bagaya Rwigirwa Akiiki and Princess Elizabeth Bagaya actively safeguarding cultural identity and political stability, sometimes in precarious circumstances.
Princess Bagaya, a lawyer and former minister, even acted as regent for the young King Oyo after his father’s sudden death. The current Queen Mother, Best Kemigisa, has also demonstrated considerable resilience, navigating palace politics and securing alliances to ensure her son’s coronation and regency. These historical precedents highlight a persistent theme: while men have fought on the battlefield, the women of Tooro have been instrumental in the strategic defense and continuity of the kingdom’s leadership.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)