news 11 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Tooro Kingdom Tightens Security, Bans Phones at Karuziika Palace Ahead of King Oyo's Burial
Ahead of the final burial rites for King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, Karuziika Palace has implemented a strict phone ban and intensified security checks. The directive aims to ensure the security of the palace and mourners during the concluding days of the nine-day mourning period. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/phones-banned-at-karuziika-palace-as-king-oyo-s-burial-nears-5591646
Karuziika Palace, the royal seat of the Tooro Kingdom, has enacted a strict policy prohibiting mobile phones within its grounds as the kingdom prepares for the final burial of its monarch, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. The ban, which initially applied only inside the palace, was extended to the main entrance on Friday morning, requiring all mourners and journalists to surrender their devices before entry.
This heightened security measure comes as the nine-day mourning period draws to a close, with the King’s burial scheduled for Saturday at the Karambi Royal Tombs. Security agencies have significantly increased their presence and scrutiny of the palace environs. Earlier on Friday, Inspector General of Police Abas Byakagaba visited the palace, leading to a temporary evacuation of mourners for security checks.
Sniffer dogs were utilized to thoroughly search the palace grounds, with security officers conducting detailed inspections. Upon their return, mourners encountered more stringent checks at the main entrance, including the mandatory surrender of mobile phones. A dedicated team was assigned to register mourners and their surrendered phones, issuing receipts for collection upon departure. Journalists, essential for covering the event, voiced concerns about the ban’s impact on their work, though the directive was communicated to them as well.
Security has also been bolstered along the routes leading to Karuziika Palace and St John’s Cathedral, with armed personnel positioned at key points. The increased security reflects the significant attendance of subjects, cultural leaders, and government officials converging on Fort Portal City to pay their final respects.
The burial programme is set to commence on Saturday at 8 am with the procession from Karuziika Palace to St John’s Cathedral for a 9 am service. The service will be presided over by Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Magula and will feature four eulogies. Following the service, the King’s body will be transported to the Karambi Royal Tombs for interment.