By Gorette Kajumba
www.mknewslink.com
In Fort Portal—-
The succession dispute in Tooro Kingdom has deepened after two sons of Musuga Charles Kamurasi, the leader of the Babiito clan, rejected the announcement of Prince Edward Rukiidi Kijanangoma as the successor to the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.
Speaking at a press conference held at Karuzika Palace, Fort Portal Tourism City, Mpuuga Patrick and Nyaika Solomon expressed disappointment with the decision taken by their father and the 21-member committee that selected the successor.
The two sons cited the late King Oyo’s will, saying it should be respected and followed in determining the succession.
They accused some individuals within the Babiito clan of influencing their father and the 21-member committee for personal interests.
They questioned the timing of the succession announcement, arguing that the late King’s body has not yet been laid to rest.
The brothers further claimed that some of those now involved in the succession process had previously opposed King Oyo during his reign and had been absent from kingdom affairs for years.
They said King Oyo, whom they described as their elder brother, had personally shared information about his wishes with them, which they kept confidential until the appropriate time.
According to the two, negotiations had been ongoing between the Babiito clan and the Queen Mother, with Gen. Henry Tumukunde reportedly involved in efforts to mediate between the two sides.
They questioned why the 21-member committee proceeded to announce a successor before the negotiations were concluded, saying the decision has disappointed many people, including the President.
The dispute follows an announcement made on Wednesday evening by the 21-member committee led by Musuga Charles Kamurasi, naming Prince Edward Rukiidi Kijanangoma, son of the late Prince Christopher Paul Kijanangoma, as the successor to the Tooro throne.
The latest development adds another layer to the growing succession dispute in Tooro Kingdom as preparations continue for the final burial of King Oyo.