Journalist to be crowned king in Uganda after bitter succession dispute

Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma Nyabongo II, set to be crowned king of Uganda's Tooro kingdom, is an unusual figure in the country. Known more for his storytelling and journalism roles at the state broadcaster, the 56-year-old has now become the center of media attention as his rise to the throne sparks controversy. Tooro is one of Uganda's four official historical kingdoms, previously ruled by King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away last month from cancer at just 34.

The coronation ceremony, involving traditional practices starting from midnight, will see Kijanangoma walk 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) to the official Karuziika royal palace before being crowned. The selection of Kijanangoma as king was not straightforward, as tradition dictates that a recognized son of the late king should succeed him.

However, Oyo's son has never been publicly revealed or recognized by the 21-member royal family committee. The late king's mother, Queen Best Kemigisa, argued that the will ought to have been respected, but the succession committee claimed their selection process followed Tooro customs and traditions. Kemigisa expressed her pain, calling Kijanangoma's selection "an announcement of a second king" made after the will was read.

The new king has vowed to work with the people and promote unity and development, as Uganda's traditional kings have no formal political authority but still hold cultural influence and command significant loyalty in the communities they lead.