Tooro Succession Drama Deepens as Palace Keys Go Missing, Edward Kijanangoma Recognised as New Omukama
The succession dispute in Tooro Kingdom has taken a fresh turn after Omusuuga Charles Akiiki Kamurasi revealed that the keys to Karuziika Palace are missing, as the Tooro Orukurato recognised Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, also known as Edward Kijanangoma, as the new Omukama.Kamurasi, who previously chaired the Royal Succession Committee, questioned the whereabouts of the palace keys while addressing members of the Orukurato.
He maintained that Tooro already has a successor and that the transition should follow the kingdom’s traditions and Uganda’s laws.The Orukurato said Edward Kijanangoma was selected after consultations and according to the cultural procedures governing the Tooro monarchy. His recognition comes after weeks of disagreements following the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV in August 2026.Earlier, the Royal Succession Committee had selected George Desmond Kamurasi, a cousin of the late king, as a possible successor.
The decision, however, was challenged by members of the royal family, including Princess Ruth Komuntale, who questioned the process and pointed to the late king’s son as a possible heir.The succession dispute has also involved other members of the royal family, including Princess Elizabeth Bagaya, while Tooro Prime Minister Omuhikirwa Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki has urged all sides to remain calm and protect the unity and traditions of the kingdom.
The missing palace keys have now become an important symbol of the disputed transition, given the significance of Karuziika Palace as the traditional seat of the Omukama.Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has reportedly approved the selection of Edward Kijanangoma, while the Minister of Culture is expected to gazette him as part of the formal process. However, questions surrounding the succession remain as Tooro prepares for the next chapter of its monarchy.
