Tooro Succession Must Adhere to Law, States Justice Minister

The official recognition and gazettement of a new Tooro monarch hinges on the adherence to established legal frameworks, according to Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao. Speaking on a local radio station, Mao highlighted that the government can only officially acknowledge a new king once succession disputes are resolved through lawful means.

The Minister stressed that the gazettement in the Uganda Gazette is a crucial final step in the formal recognition of any cultural leader. He described the current rivalry surrounding the Tooro throne as a matter of concern, urging all parties involved to channel their disagreements through the appropriate legal channels.

“Installing a king is solely dependent on the tradition of a specific tribe. If there is a dispute, the law spells it out clearly,” Mao stated. He further explained that any rivalry must be settled before a successor’s name can be published.

Mao’s remarks come at a time when the Tooro Kingdom is navigating a succession challenge. This follows the recent demise of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away in the United States on August 27th. The late king, who ascended the throne at the tender age of three in 1995, was recently laid to rest at the Karambi Royal Tombs.

A dispute emerged shortly after the Babiito royal clan announced Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the chosen successor. However, this selection has reportedly been contested by some members of the royal family, including the Queen Mother and a princess, who claim the late king designated a different successor in a purported will.

https://observer.ug/news/tooro-succession-must-follow-the-law-justice-minister