opinion 4 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Navigating Opinions: The Need for Informed Discourse in Uganda
In the wake of King Oyo's passing, social media has exploded with opinions on Tooro Kingdom's succession. This deluge highlights the potential dangers of unexamined public opinion, emphasizing the crucial role of well-curated journalism in providing factual context. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/charles-bichachi/opinions-are-like-noses-but-be-an-informed-nose-5583664
The recent outpouring of commentary on social media following the death of Tooro Kingdom’s sovereign, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, serves as a stark illustration of the old adage, “Opinions are like noses; everyone has one.” The digital sphere has become a breeding ground for speculation, with countless posts debating the next king, the selection process, and the role of the chief prince, Omusuuga Charles Kayondo Kamurasi.
While social media, often dubbed the ‘Fifth Estate,’ offers a valuable platform for diverse voices to be heard without traditional gatekeeping, it also presents significant drawbacks. As philosopher Voltaire observed, unexamined public opinion and popular prejudice can be more destructive than natural disasters, causing widespread misery and conflict. “Opinions have caused more ills than the plague or earthquakes,” he noted, adding that it takes ages to dismantle deeply ingrained popular beliefs.
The antidote to this often misinformed deluge is robust, explanatory journalism from the ‘Fourth Estate.’ Mainstream media has the capacity to act as a cleanser, providing well-curated information that sets the record straight and debunks misguided narratives.
A recent article in the Daily Monitor, “Musuuga: The man overseeing Oyo’s funeral and succession rites,” by Alex Ashaba, is cited as an example of exemplary explanatory journalism. By sitting down with Omusuuga Charles Kamurasi, the article offered sober, informed, and unbiased insights into his role in the kingdom’s traditions and the process of selecting a new monarch. This factual reporting, however, appears to have been lost amidst the cacophony of social media chatter.
It is essential to remember that kingdoms are deeply rooted in tradition and culture. The true custodians of these institutions are not necessarily those in urban centers, but the village elders who have inherited knowledge through generations. Their decisions are guided by historical precedent and cultural continuity, not fleeting popular sentiment.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it’s easy to overlook the historical context that underpins traditional institutions. However, if one’s status is derived from such institutions, adherence to their traditions remains paramount. This nuanced understanding is crucial for informed discourse.
Rest in peace Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.