Thousands of Batooro on Monday night, September 28, took part in a historic torch-lit procession that ushered Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I into Karuziika Palace, marking a major stage in Tooro Kingdom’s transition to a new reign.
The traditional ceremony came ahead of Nyabongo I’s formal coronation on Tuesday, September 29, following the death of his predecessor, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died in the United States on August 27, 2026, aged 34.
The Night Journey
At about 10pm, Nyabongo I departed Rwengoma Palace, the traditional starting point for the incoming king’s journey to Karuziika.
He was accompanied by thousands of people who walked through Fort Portal City carrying traditional torches made from dried reeds.
The procession featured dancing, chanting and other cultural displays as the crowds followed the incoming king towards the royal palace.
According to the coronation programme, the night journey symbolises an attack and takeover of the royal seat.
The Mock Battle at Mugabante
At Mugabante, the main entrance to Karuziika Palace, Nyabongo I and his procession encountered palace defenders in a traditional mock battle.
The ritual symbolises the struggle involved in taking possession of the royal seat and the transfer of authority to a new monarch.
Nyabongo I emerged victorious before proceeding into Karuziika Palace with members of the royal family, while the general public remained outside the palace gates as the king continued with rituals reserved for the royal institution.
Royal Regalia Restored
Inside Karuziika, Nyabongo I took his place on the restored royal throne.
Royal drums, spears and other regalia that had been turned upside down following King Oyo’s death were restored to their proper positions, symbolising the end of the mourning period and the beginning of a new reign.
The sculptures of lions at the palace and other designated locations were also uncovered after remaining covered during the mourning period.
These rituals marked the transition from the mourning period for King Oyo to the reign of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I.
From Cleansing Rites to the Throne
Before entering the palace, Nyabongo I also underwent traditional cleansing rites known as okweeza, involving milk and coffee beans as part of the preparations for assuming the throne.
The night rituals formed an important part of the traditional process leading to the formal coronation scheduled for September 29 at Karuziika Palace.
Nyabongo I, formerly known as Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, was selected by the Babiito ruling clan to succeed the late King Oyo.
He is also identified as a longtime journalist and news anchor with the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation and a son of the late Prince Christopher Paul Kijanangoma.
The torch-lit procession, mock battle and restoration of the royal regalia have now set the stage for the formal coronation as Tooro Kingdom enters a new chapter following the reign of King Oyo.
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