Women barred from Tooro king’s coronation procession

What the report says

Women will not take part in the traditional procession that will escort Tooro king-designate Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I to Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City ahead of his coronation, The Observer reported. The procession is scheduled for Monday night, beginning at 10 p.m. from Rwengoma Palace and moving through the city before ending at the palace, as part of the rituals leading up to the formal ceremony on Tuesday.

Richard Rwabuhinga, identified as head of protocol for the coronation organising committee, said the restriction follows Tooro cultural practices tied to the ritual. He said women may still attend the church service and join the coronation ceremony itself, which is set for Tuesday at Karuziika Palace.

According to the published programme, the king-designate is expected to arrive at the palace early on Tuesday, after which ceremonial rites will include a mock battle at the entrance and additional traditional steps inside the palace. The report said items such as royal drums and spears, left upside down after the death of the previous monarch, were to be turned upright during the night-long rituals. Preparations were also under way at the palace, with contributions from subjects, tents being erected and repainting and other work continuing as the kingdom readied for the event.