Traditional ceremonies to install Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I as the new Omukama of Tooro started on Monday night with a torch-lit procession and a symbolic battle at Karuzika Royal Palace in Fort Portal City.
The rites marked the transfer of authority following the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV in the United States on August 27, 2026. He was 34.
Nyabongo I began his journey from Rwengoma Palace, the traditional departure point for an incoming Tooro king before taking the throne.
Thousands of Batooro joined him on the four-kilometre procession through Fort Portal City to Karuziika Palace. They carried lamps made from dried reeds as they sang, danced and chanted.
The procession represented a night assault through which a new king takes control of the royal seat.
At Mugabante, the main entrance to Karuziika Palace, Nyabongo I and his group encountered palace defenders in a mock battle.
The defenders represented the Omusuuga, the head of the Babiito royal clan, Charles Kayondo Kamurasi Akiiki.
The ritual represents the struggle for kingship and the transfer of royal authority.
Nyabongo I’s side prevailed, allowing him to enter the palace with members of the royal family. Members of the public remained outside as private rites continued through the night.
Inside the palace, Nyabongo I occupied the restored royal throne.
Royal drums, spears and other regalia, which had been turned upside down after King Oyo’s death, were returned to their normal positions.
Lion sculptures at the palace and other locations were also uncovered after remaining covered throughout the mourning period.
The rituals brought Tooro’s mourning period to an end and signalled the start of Nyabongo I’s reign.
Before entering Karuziika Palace, the new king underwent cleansing rites known as okweeza. The ceremonies involved milk and coffee beans and prepared him for his entry into the royal seat.
Nyabongo I was previously known as Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma. He worked for years as a journalist and news anchor at Uganda Broadcasting Corporation.
He is the son of the late Prince Christopher Paul Kijanangoma and grandson of Omukama Sir George David Rukidi III.
A Babiito succession committee selected him on September 9, 2026. The Tooro Supreme Council later endorsed the choice.
He succeeds his cousin, King Oyo, who ruled Tooro for 31 years after ascending the throne at the age of three.
The succession process drew objections from King Oyo’s immediate family, which referred to a will said to have named his previously undisclosed son as heir. The Babiito clan and other kingdom institutions, however, continued with Nyabongo I’s installation.
His public coronation will be held today.
The programme includes a church service and blessing at St John’s Cathedral. Tooro’s flag will also return to full mast, while the kingdom anthem will be restored.
The Omusuuga is expected to formally hand over authority before the crowning ceremony.
President Yoweri Museveni is expected to attend as chief guest.
The coronation opens a new era for Tooro after more than three decades under King Oyo and places a former journalist on the throne of one of Uganda’s recognised cultural institutions.
