Former television journalist Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma has been enthroned as Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, the new King, or Omukama, of Uganda’s Tooro Kingdom.
The coronation took place today, September 29, 2026, at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal. He succeeds King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died on August 27 at the age of 34.
Nyabongo I, aged 56, was selected by the Babiito royal clan, which chose him from among eligible princes. His selection followed a succession dispute after members of the late king’s family claimed that Oyo had a previously undisclosed son who was entitled to the throne. The royal clan said it was unaware of such a child and proceeded according to Tooro’s traditional succession process.
The new king previously worked as a news anchor and editor with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC). His enthronement included traditional rituals and a symbolic mock battle for the crown.
Although traditional kings in Uganda do not have formal political power, they remain important cultural leaders and symbols of their communities.
