By Eye Media Uganda | Fort Portal | September 10, 2026
Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma has publicly rejected the Tooro throne after the immediate family of the late King Oyo earlier opposed his selection.
On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, the Babiito Royal Clan’s succession committee announced Prince Kijanangoma as the crown prince to succeed King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.
However, the late King’s sister and Batebe, Princess Ruth Nsemere Komuntale, immediately rejected the decision, insisting that her brother had left a written succession plan.
“We are just very disappointed,” Princess Komuntale said, describing the decision as an attempt to create “division and turmoil” while the family was still grieving.
She maintained that King Oyo’s written will clearly identified an heir to succeed him, contrary to the Royal Clan’s decision to select Prince Kijanangoma.
King Oyo’s paternal aunt, Princess Elizabeth Bagaya—whom the royal siblings fondly call their senga—also joined Princess Komuntale in rejecting the selection.
Princess Bagaya said the immediate royal family did not recognise Prince Kijanangoma as King Oyo’s rightful successor and maintained that the late monarch’s wishes should be respected.
Days after facing resistance from the family, Prince Kijanangoma reportedly informed Omusuuga Charles Kamurasi that he was not ready to take the throne.
The former Uganda Broadcasting Corporation presenter reportedly cited his Born-Again Christian faith and concerns about traditional expectations associated with the monarchy.
Sources say he feared that some customs concerning marriage and the production of a royal heir could conflict with his religious convictions and family life.
Prince Kijanangoma is married to Ms. Rebecca Amoding-Rukidi, a human resource and organisational development professional from Eastern Uganda.
His withdrawal follows reports that Mr. George Desmond Kamurasi, a London-based footballer and coach, had also declined the throne after initially being presented as a potential successor.
The latest developments could send the Babiito Royal Clan back to the drawing board as the late King’s family continues to insist that his written will and named heir must be respected.
