King Oyo of Tooro Kingdom urges politicians to avoid tribalism

17 October 2025, 23:25

By kyalisimaasuman

His Majesty the King of Tooro Kingdom, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, has urged politicians to refrain from tribalism in politics ahead of the 2026 general elections.

King Oyo delivered the message to thousands of his subjects in Kibaale County, Kamwenge District, during a function held at Biguli Market in Biguli Town Council. The event marked the conclusion of his official visits to all nine counties of Tooro Kingdom under the theme: Agriculture for Development.

Beginning his address, King Oyo highlighted the significance of Kibaale County, noting its unique history within the Tooro Kingdom. He also reiterated his long-standing advocacy for his subjects to engage in modern agricultural practices, emphasising that this forms part of the Kingdom’s 25-year development plan.

He further stressed that the plan aims to fight poverty and increase household incomes among his subjects.

King Oyo also stated that, in collaboration with the central government, the Kingdom has launched a coffee and cocoa planting campaign, primarily targeting the youth. He directed Calvin Rwomire Armstrong, the Kingdom Prime Minister, to ensure the supply of seedlings before the end of this rainy season.

On land issues, King Oyo emphasised that no one is permitted to evict people from Kingdom land. He concluded his approximately four-minute and eleven-second speech by offering a health tip, urging his subjects to protect themselves against HIV/AIDS.

King Oyo was also accompanied by high-ranking officials from the Kingdom, led by Calvin Rwomire Armstrong, the Prime Minister, along with other political dignitaries, including the Minister for Agriculture and Kibaale East MP in Kamwenge District, Hon Frank Tumwebaze, and the District Woman Member of Parliament for Kamwenge, Hon Sylvia Baherira, who pledged to support the Kingdom’s programmes.

Before his speech, Minister Frank Tumwebaze delighted the crowd by performing several playful gestures as a sign of respect, bringing a smile to His Majesty’s face.

Minister Tumwebaze praised King Oyo for his dedication to promoting agriculture, tourism, the environment, and other key issues.

In his message, the highest-ranking chief (Owishaza) of Kibaale County, Mugorobya Stephen, asked His Majesty to incorporate additional projects into the Kingdom’s 25-year development plan.

Among the projects he proposed were the construction of a secondary school to enable vulnerable students to access education and the establishment of a Tooro Kingdom hospital, among others.

The function was also attended by the RDC of Kamwenge, Africano Harikundira, Aggrey Natuhamya, the aspiring MP for Kibaale East, and other dignitaries.