By Gorette Kajumba
www.mknewslink.com
In Fort Portal
Family, friends and the people of Tooro Kingdom have gathered at St. John’s Cathedral in Fort Portal Tourism City for a requiem service for the late Prince David Mugabe Kijanangoma, who died on Tuesday, September 15, at Mulago Cancer Institute after battling throat cancer.
Prince David Kijanangoma was born on April 15, 1967. His body was yesterday laid to rest at the royal tombs in Karambi, North Division, and Fort Portal Tourism City.
He has left behind a widow and six children.
Speaking at the requiem service, Omusuga Charles Kamurasi, the leader of the Babiito royal clan, said the name Kijanangoma carries strong meaning and affection within the royal family.
He described the past two weeks as difficult for the Babiito family and appreciated the people who have stood with the family, the Babiito clan and the entire Tooro Kingdom during the period of mourning.
Deputy Omusuga Kato Rwakatale Abooki read a message from the incoming King of Tooro, Prince Edward Kijanangoma, the younger brother of the late David Kijanangoma.
Prince Edward appreciated the people who have stood with the royal family, saying the loss has brought pain to the people of Tooro and the Babiito clan.
He also appreciated President Museveni for supporting the late prince during his illness and enabling him to access medical treatment.
He called upon the people of Tooro to remain united and avoid divisionism.
The requiem service was led by Rev. Canon Robert Abigaba, Dean of St. John’s Cathedral.
Canon Abigaba urged mourners to live responsibly while they are still alive and remain prepared for the time when God calls them.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Henry Isoke, who read a message from President Museveni, said the President had financially supported the late prince during his illness and up to the time of his death.
In the message, the President said his family stands with the royal family and the people of Tooro during this period of grief. He also recognized Prince David Kijanangoma’s contribution to preserving Tooro’s cultural heritage.
A close friend of the late prince, Katusabe Irumba, recalled a WhatsApp message David sent after learning that his younger brother, Prince Edward Kijanangoma, had been chosen to succeed the late King Oyo.
Katusabe said David expressed relief, saying his soul could now rest peacefully because what they had fought for had been achieved.
He said the struggle was not about David personally, but about the people and future of Tooro Kingdom.