Toro mourns King Oyo as leaders pay tribute to late monarch
The news of the King’s death on August 27, 2026 triggered an outpouring of condolences from political, cultural and religious leaders, who remembered him for his leadership, humility and commitment to the people of Toro.
Buganda Kingdom described King Oyo's death as a great loss, “We mourn together with the people of Tooro for the loss of their leader, who was a person of great importance to the nation.” Part of the kingdom’s message read.
TRIBUTE
FORT PORTAL - Toro Kingdom has been plunged into grief following the death of its monarch, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV, with leaders from across the region and the country describing his death as a painful loss to the kingdom and the country.
The news of the King’s death on August 27, 2026 triggered an outpouring of condolences from political, cultural and religious leaders, who remembered him for his leadership, humility and commitment to the people of Toro.
The announcement was made by Toro Premier Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, who said the monarch died at approximately 10:00pm
"It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I announce the passing of His Majesty the Omukama of Tooro, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, at approximately 10:00pm this evening," Rwomiire posted on X.
First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community (EAC) Affairs Rebecca Kadaga has also mourned King Oyo's passing, describing it as the moment when the sun has set on the life of the Rukirabasaija Omukama of Toro.
Following the announcement, former Kabarole district chairperson and former Toro Kingdom education minister Richard Rwabuhinga Abooki described the death as a dark moment for Toro.
He described the late King as a leader who dedicated his life to serving humanity and called upon the people of Tooro and their friends to mourn him peacefully and with dignity.
“I call upon all people of Tooro and our friends to come together and mourn this great leader in a peaceful, dignified manner and in a manner that reflects our values and grief as a people,” he said.
Henry Basaliza, who served as kingdom minister of foreign affairs and Inter-Kingdom Relations before being elevated to deputy premier, described the late monarch as a leader with whom he shared a close and respectful working relationship.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa also expressed shock over the death, saying the loss was difficult to comprehend.
He said the appointments he received from King Oyo were among the greatest honours of his life, but that his relationship with the monarch went beyond the positions he held.
He remembered King Oyo as humble, wise and calm, saying their engagements were characterised by mutual respect and a shared commitment to the dignity, unity and advancement of the people of Tooro.
“The departure of His Majesty leaves an immeasurable void in the Kingdom of Tooro and in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him,” he said.
Buganda Kingdom described the death as a great loss, “We mourn together with the people of Tooro for the loss of their leader, who was a person of great importance to the nation.” Part of the kingdom’s message read.
First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community (EAC) Affairs Rebecca Kadaga has also mourned King Oyo's passing, describing it as the moment when the sun has set on the life of the Rukirabasaija Omukama of Toro.
King Oyo performing empango rituals ahead of the 29th coronation anniversary.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa also expressed shock over the death, saying the loss was difficult to comprehend.
He extended condolences to the Royal Family, Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, the guardian of the King, President Yoweri Museveni, the Tooro Kingdom leadership, the people of Tooro and Uganda.
Former leader of Opposition in Parliament Winnie Kiiza said the death felt particularly close because of the historical, geographical and family ties between Kasese and Tooro.
“As a daughter of Kasese, who shares the mountains, boundaries, and family ties with Tooro, this loss feels close,” she said.
She called for prayers for the Royal Family and the people of Tooro during this difficult period, praying that the late King’s soul would rest in peace.