Azande King describes late Tooro Monarch of Uganda as champion of African Unity — Eye Radio

King Atoroba Peni Rikito of the Azande Kingdom described Tooro’s late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV of Uganda as a leader who promoted unity among traditional African institutions during Saturday’s burial.

King Atoroba landed at Kajjansi via chartered plane before traveling to Fort Portal for Saturday’s funeral service. He describes King Oyo as a ruler who fostered cross-border cultural and agricultural cooperation to improve the wellbeing of traditional communities.

King Oyo died last month at age 34 during cancer treatment in the United States. He ascended the throne at age three in 1995, becoming the world’s youngest reigning monarch.

Mourners lined the streets as the king’s casket traveled to the royal tombs in Fort Portal for the final rites.

The burial occurred alongside a succession dispute within the Tooro Kingdom. Clan elders selected TV presenter Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, 56, as the successor. Kijanangoma cast nine coffee beans into Oyo’s grave to perform the traditional transition ritual.

King Oyo’s family rejected the selection. Princess Ruth Komuntale stated her late brother left a 2022 will naming his young son as the rightful heir.

The Babiito royal clan defended Kijanangoma’s appointment. Clan head Omusuuga Charles Karumasi stated the decision followed Tooro tradition to preserve stability.

Officiating the service, Church of Uganda Archbishop Stephen Kazimba Mugalu urged unity, while Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni called on the royal family and clan leaders to resolve the dispute peacefully.