Bunyoro appeals for funds for king’s treatment abroad

What the report says

The ruling Babiito clan of the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom has appealed for financial support to help send Omukama Dr Solomon Gafabusa Rukirabasaija Agutamba Iguru I abroad for specialised medical treatment, according to The Observer. Chief prince Fred Mugenyi Rucunya said clan members and elders agreed at a meeting last Sunday that the king should receive care outside Uganda. He called on clan members, government bodies, kingdom subjects and other well-wishers to contribute, but did not say how much money would be needed.

Rucunya said the effort was being complicated by what he described as the lack of recognised leadership in the kingdom. He argued that unresolved internal divisions have weakened the institution and urged clan leaders, elders and other stakeholders to work together to restore stability. The article says he also asked Banyoro and other Ugandans to pray for the Omukama and said the king had been confined to the palace and was not fully carrying out royal duties.

Andrew Byakutaga, the kingdom’s prime minister, confirmed that Iguru is unwell and receiving treatment, but did not say where he is being treated or what illness he has. The report adds that concerns about the king’s health are not new: he was taken to Kampala for treatment in 2024, and a Hoima High Court order later said he should be taken to India or another suitable hospital if needed. The health issue comes amid a separate leadership dispute within the kingdom involving the prime minister’s tenure.