Musuuga’s sons reject Kijanangoma as new Tooro King

What the report says

The Observer reports that two sons of Babiito royal clan head Musuuga Charles Kamurasi have rejected the selection of Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the next Omukama of Tooro. Speaking at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal on Thursday, Yoweri Komwiswa Nyaika and Solomon Mpuuga said the process, in their view, ignored the wishes of the late King Oyo and did not reflect what the family had expected after hearing about a purported succession plan.

According to the article, the brothers said they were surprised when a 21-member clan committee announced Kijanangoma as successor on Wednesday evening. They also accused some clan members of influencing their father and of acting in ways they believe could weaken the legacy of the late king. Their comments add to an already disputed succession process that has drawn in other members of the royal family.

The report says Princess Ruth Komuntale Nsemere and Princess Elizabeth Bagaya had earlier rejected Kijanangoma’s selection, saying Oyo had left a will naming his son as the preferred successor and setting out alternatives if needed. The article also notes that the family claims Musuuga had earlier been relieved of his duties and replaced by Mpuuga. These claims have not been independently verified in the piece.

Despite their objections, Nyaika and Mpuuga urged calm and unity in Tooro. A spokesperson for the Babiito clan, Moses Musinguzi, said the traditional installation process would continue and insisted the choice was made under Tooro customs and clan procedures.