DATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2026
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56-Year-Old Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma to be Crowned

56-Year-Old Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma to be Crowned

Sep 29, 2026 - 05:30
Journalist to be crowned king in Uganda after bitter succession dispute
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Key Highlights

  • Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma to be crowned king of Uganda's Tooro kingdom.
  • Succession dispute sparks controversy and reactions beyond the country.
  • Kijanangoma's background and qualifications as the new king.

Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, 56, is poised to become the new monarch of Uganda's Tooro kingdom, following a tumultuous succession process. The coronation ceremony, scheduled to take place later this month, is expected to be attended by President Yoweri Museveni.

The selection of Prince Kijanangoma as king was marked by controversy, as he failed to meet the traditional criteria for succession. According to established custom, a recognised son of the late king should succeed him, but Prince Kijanangoma's eligibility was never publicly confirmed.

for her and many others.

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Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma wearing traditional clothing of a white gown with an orange cloth tied around the neck
Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma wearing traditional clothing of a white gown with an orange cloth tied around the neck

As a mother, it's heartbreaking to see a child placed in a situation where their future is uncertain, she said, highlighting the risks associated with Prince Kijanangoma's ascension to the throne.

Prince Kijanangoma was born in 1970 and raised in a family home in Fort Portal, Uganda. He pursued further education at Makerere University, graduating with a mass communication degree in 1999.

Prince Kijanangoma has had a long career in journalism, working for several media outlets, including the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation. He has pledged to focus on unity and development as the new king.

Best Kemigisa dressed in black, with a black head covering draped over her shoulders, appearing emotional
Image caption, The late King Oyo's mother has expressed her pain over the succession row

The Tooro kingdom is one of Uganda's four main historically recognised kingdoms. With a rich cultural heritage and significant influence over the local community.

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Although the kingdoms were abolished in 1967, the government under President Yoweri Museveni restored them in the early 1990s. Today, Uganda's traditional monarchs retain cultural significance, despite lacking formal political authority.

The country's traditional kings play a vital role in promoting cultural identity and unity. And their influence is still deeply felt in the communities they serve.

As Prince Kijanangoma prepares to take the throne, the kingdom and its people are watching with bated breath, eager to see how he will navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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I write about the forces shaping business and the global economy, from startup growth and changing markets to international trade and policy. My work focuses on breaking down complex developments into clear, practical insights and understanding what they could mean for businesses, investors, and the wider economy.

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