Tooro Muslims Seek Greater Representation in Kingdom Cabinet

Muslim leaders in Tooro Kingdom are advocating for enhanced representation within the royal administration, urging Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I to appoint more Muslims to his cabinet. This request was articulated by Tooro Muslim District Khadi Sheikh Abdu Karim Hakim during Friday Juma prayers, which the Omukama himself attended at the Kabarole Main Mosque in Fort Portal City.

Sheikh Hakim emphasized that while they do not seek to dominate the cabinet, an increased Muslim presence would acknowledge the community’s significant contributions to the kingdom’s progress. He also encouraged Muslims to embrace the Tooro Kingdom, pointing to tangible benefits such as access to land, educational opportunities, and vocational training support. He cited the kingdom’s bursary program supporting Muslim students at Uganda Pentecostal University and a skilling center at the Muchwa Kingdom headquarters as examples of this support.

“Kingdomship is not forbidden, as long as you follow what is good and leave out what is bad,” Sheikh Hakim stated, asserting that religious obligations and cultural allegiances can coexist harmoniously.

In response, Omukama Nyabongo I assured the Muslim community that his palace, Karuziika, is open to all and pledged continued cooperation in key areas such as education, poverty alleviation, and cultural preservation. Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire, recently reappointed, echoed this sentiment, stressing that Tooro belongs to everyone, regardless of faith.

Mr. Rwomiire outlined the administration’s commitment to rebuilding public confidence through community engagement and prioritizing the youth. He invited Muslim leaders to present their proposals on education, health, employment, and youth livelihoods to his office. The Prime Minister also hinted at an upcoming strategic plan for the kingdom, emphasizing a collective effort from all subjects to build a prosperous Tooro.

https://www.monitor.ug/uganda/news/national/tooro-muslims-ask-omukama-for-more-cabinet-slots-5625782