The path has been cleared for the installation of Crown Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the new King of Tooro following confirmation that there are no legal barriers stopping the traditional coronation process.

Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, aged 56, is set to be installed as Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, the 14th Omukama of Tooro, during a coronation ceremony scheduled for September 29 in Fort Portal.

The development follows the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away on August 27 at the age of 34 while receiving cancer treatment in the United States.

King Oyo’s body was later returned to Uganda, and he was laid to rest on September 12 as the kingdom began preparations for a new chapter under a new monarch.

Attorney General Sam Mayanja confirmed that there is no court appeal currently blocking the traditional succession process approved by Tooro’s Supreme Council.

The confirmation comes amid discussions within the royal family after questions were raised over a reported 2022 will that allegedly named a biological son of the late King Oyo as heir.

However, Tooro’s traditional structures proceeded with the selection of Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the successor, paving the way for the upcoming coronation.

Preparations for the historic ceremony are now underway, with kingdom officials organising traditional rituals and events to welcome the new Omukama.

The coronation is expected to bring together cultural leaders, government officials, religious leaders, political figures and subjects of the Tooro Kingdom.

As the kingdom prepares for Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I to take the throne, the transition marks a significant moment in Tooro’s history following the end of King Oyo’s reign.