Bunyoro calls off Empango celebrations over king's ill health

Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom has called off Empango (coronation anniversary) celebrations over Omukama Dr Solomon Iguru Gafabusa's ill health.

Kingdom chief Prince (Okwiri), who is the head of the Babito ruling clan, Fred Mugenyi Ruchunya, says the Kingdom will only have a ceremony just to commemorate the date when Omukama Iguru was enthroned.

Ruchunya says the OMukama’s health condition is poor and that he will not manage to perform the rituals to make the Empango.

Chief prince Fred Mugenyi Ruchunya (L) with members of the royal clan.

According to him, they are discussing to see how Omukama will appear at the commemoration function for a few minutes and wave to his subjects.

"We do not have Empango, but we are just going to commemorate it because Empango is about Omukama. Omukama is the one who performs Empango rituals and nobody can be delegated to perform these rituals,” he said.

Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom Prime Minister Andrew Byakutaga said preparations for the commemoration of the coronation anniversary are in high gear to ensure its success. 

The event, which is always held on June 11, commemorates the day Iguru ascended to the throne in 1994, is expected to take place at Rukurato (Chambers).

President Museveni greeting Queen Mother Omugo Margaret Karuga as Omukama look on at Karuzika Palace during 22nd Coronation anniversary in 2016.

He added that they will have several pre-celebration activities such as the Empango run to collect money to support Kikuube Health Centre IV on June 9, the Kabalega Motor Rally, exhibition and cocking competition, among others.

The Kingdom is seeking sh500m to fund all these activities.

Byakutaga, called on the kingdom's subjects to positively contribute to the celebrations and also turn up in large numbers to grace the function.

Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom comprises the districts of Hoima, Masindi, Kibaale, Kagadi, Kikuube, Kakumiro, Buliisa and Kiryandongo.