Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I is new Omukama of Tooro

What the report says

Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I was installed early Tuesday as the new Omukama of Tooro in traditional ceremonies at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City, Uganda, according to The Independent Uganda. The installation followed an overnight procession that began at Rwengoma Palace late Monday and moved through the city with thousands of subjects, ritual chanting and traditional lamps before reaching the palace in the early hours.

The report says kingdom officials described the procession and entry rites as part of Tooro custom. At Mugabante, the palace entrance, Nyabongo’s group took part in a symbolic mock battle, followed by other rituals inside the palace. Traditionalists then presented royal items including drums, spears and a shield, while the main royal drum, Butwarane, was sounded nine times. The publication said these acts marked the transition after the death of the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.

The article adds that royal symbols around the palace and in Fort Portal were restored or uncovered to signal the end of mourning and the start of a new reign. The public coronation programme was set to continue with a church service at St. John’s Cathedral in Fort Portal, followed by the formal coronation at Karuziika Palace. President Yoweri Museveni was expected to attend as chief guest.