Parliament Mourns King Oyo, Hails Him as Icon of Unity

What the report says

Parliament in Uganda observed a solemn tribute on Thursday for the late King of Tooro, His Majesty Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, with legislators, ministers and staff describing him as a unifying and visionary figure. Speaker Jacob Markson Oboth led the moment of remembrance before the afternoon sitting, and many officials signed a condolence book at Parliament.

When the House resumed, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja moved the motion of tribute, praising the monarch as a leader of dignity and a symbol of cultural identity for Tooro and the wider country. The government and other speakers also credited President Yoweri Museveni with mentoring the king after his ascension to the throne as a child, reflecting the close political and cultural attention given to the kingdom over the years.

According to the report, the Minister for Health, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, said the king died of cancer, prompting a call for Ugandans to seek regular screening and early treatment. The Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, and State Minister Mary Kuteesa Kamuli said government had taken over burial arrangements and was working with the Tooro Kingdom on a dignified send-off.

The tribute session was emotionally charged, particularly for MPs from Tooro, who urged government to preserve the king’s legacy through projects such as completing Buhinga Stadium in Fort Portal City, renaming it in his honour, and considering a cancer institute there. The article says burial is expected on September 12, the date that would have marked his 31st coronation anniversary.