————————————By Gorette Kajumba
www.mknewslink.com
In Tooro—
Tooro Kingdom is mourning the death of Prince David Kijanangoma, brother to the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV, just days after the King was laid to rest at the royal tomb in Karambi.
Aliganyira John Kateba, head of the Abasoli clan, described the death as another painful blow to the kingdom, which is still grieving the loss of King Oyo.
He conveyed condolences from the Abasoli clan to the Babiito clan, the royal family and the entire Tooro Kingdom.
Irumba Katusabe, who worked as Prince David Kijanangoma’s personal assistant, said the Prince died during the night, describing his death as a painful loss to his team.
Irumba said Kijanangoma recruited him in 2017 and remained committed to the struggle over the Tooro throne, a battle that had initially been pursued by his elder brother.
He said Kijanangoma died peacefully after his brother, Prince Edward Kijanangoma, was selected as the successor to the late King Oyo.
Irumba described the deceased as a fighter who championed the interests of the people and worked closely with his team.
Irumba also revealed that Prince David Kijanangoma had been recommended for treatment in India, with efforts underway to raise funds for the trip, but the plan could not be realized.
Prince David Kijanangoma had for years been associated with the Tooro succession dispute. In 2015, he challenged his brother, the late King Oyo, over the throne, before the dispute was brought to an end with the intervention of President Yoweri Museveni.
The spokesperson for the Babiito clan, Musinguzi Moses, described Kijanangoma as a strong pillar who fought for the interests of the Tooro Kingdom.
He said the royal clan will organize the Prince’s final send-off under the leadership of Omusuga Charles Kamurasi.
The Deputy Musuga, Kato Rwakatale, said the news had come at a painful time when the royal family and the kingdom were still mourning King Oyo.
He called on the people of Tooro and members of the Babiito clan to remain calm and united as preparations for Prince David Kijanangoma’s final send-off are made.
Prince David Kijanangoma died after battling throat cancer. He had reportedly been receiving treatment at Mulago Cancer Institute before being recommended for further treatment in India, but financial constraints prevented the planned trip.
His death comes only days after the final send-off of his brother, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV.