The Tooro Elders Forum, Isaazi Ly’Abantu Bakuru Ba Tooro, has called for unity, restraint and respect for the kingdom’s cultural institutions as Tooro navigates a contentious succession process following the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Rukidi IV.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the Forum Chairperson, Col. (Rtd) Tom Butiime, the elders expressed support for the 21-member committee established to oversee the search for Oyo’s successor.
The elders endorsed both the process undertaken by the committee and the outcomes and recommendations arising from its deliberations, urging the people of Tooro to respect the institutions and individuals entrusted with managing the transition.
The call comes amid growing disagreement within the royal family over the committee’s decision to declare Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the next Omukama of Tooro. The committee announced Kijanangoma’s selection on Wednesday, but the decision has been strongly opposed by prominent members of the royal family, including Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, Princess Ruth Komuntale, Elizabeth Bagaya and Magrete Mukabaizi.
The royal family members have reportedly challenged the decision, citing an alleged will in which the late Omukama Oyo stated that he had a son who, under normal circumstances, would be entitled to inherit the throne.
The succession committee is understood to have sought information about the alleged child in an effort to establish his identity and assess his eligibility as a candidate. However, members of the royal family say their requests for further information were met with resistance.
Against this backdrop, the elders urged the people of Tooro to put the interests of the kingdom above individual disagreements and competing positions.
“As we prepare for the installation of the new Omukama, may we remain guided by our history, our traditions and our shared responsibility to preserve the Tooro Kingdom for generations to come,” the statement reads.
The elders described the current period as one of mourning, reflection and transition, acknowledging that differences in opinion and interpretation could arise but warning that such disagreements should not be allowed to fracture the kingdom or undermine its customs and traditions.
They urged the people of Tooro to ensure that their words and actions strengthen rather than weaken the unity and dignity of the kingdom. The elders also raised concern over the circulation of what they described as false, misleading and unverified information, particularly on social media.
They cautioned the public against using social media, artificial intelligence and other digital technologies to create, manipulate or circulate information capable of misleading the public or heightening tensions during the succession process.
“Social media, artificial intelligence and other digital technologies should not be used to manufacture, alter or circulate information that may mislead the public or create unnecessary tension,” the elders said.
They also called on journalists, media houses and other communicators to uphold professional standards when reporting on the kingdom, urging them to verify information and rely on authentic and competent sources.
The elders further appealed to individuals and groups both within and outside Tooro to respect the dignity of the kingdom and the sensitivity of the transition. They said any involvement in the affairs of Tooro should contribute to peace, unity and understanding rather than fuel confusion, division or conflict.
The forum said the succession should ultimately be conducted peacefully and in accordance with the kingdom’s customs, traditions and established practices, urging all sides to consider the broader interests of Tooro as preparations for the installation of the next Omukama continue-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
