Politics 4 September 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Tooro PM Defends Secrecy Over King Oyo's Illness
Tooro Kingdom's Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, has defended his decision to withhold information about the late King Oyo's medical condition, stating he was acting on the King's explicit wishes for privacy. Rwomiire asserted that public statements about the King studying abroad were made in accordance with the monarch's directives. Source: https://observer.ug/news/tooro-pm-defends-concealing-king-oyos-illness
Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, has broken his silence regarding the communication surrounding the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV’s health. Rwomiire stated that he kept the King’s medical condition private because it was the late monarch’s express wish.
Speaking on his official X account, Rwomiire explained that the public was informed the King was abroad for studies and later that he was well, all in line with King Oyo’s instructions. He emphasized his duty to respect the King’s privacy and prevent unnecessary alarm among the subjects.
The Prime Minister’s statement comes amidst controversy and questions from senior Tooro officials, including the head of the Babiito royal clan, Omusuga Charles Kamurasi, who accused Rwomiire of withholding information about the King’s health. Kamurasi voiced his concerns publicly when announcing the King’s death.
Rwomiire acknowledged that other matters had been raised but stressed that the current period of mourning is not the appropriate time to address them. He called for restraint from kingdom leaders, cultural figures, officials, and the media, urging them to prioritize unity and respect for the late King’s memory.
He appealed for a dignified farewell for King Oyo, who passed away on August 28, 2026, at the age of 34. The King’s remains are expected to arrive in Uganda on September 4, 2026, for a week of mourning culminating in his burial on September 12. The Minister of Health, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, had previously informed Parliament that the King died of cancer.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)