KAMPALA — The Tooro kingdom, one of Uganda's traditional monarchies, selected Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as its new king on Wednesday, succeeding King Oyo Nyimba, who died Aug. 27 at age 34 from cancer.
Prince Kijanangoma, a news anchor and editor at UBC, Uganda's state-run broadcaster, was chosen by the royal clan's succession committee. The announcement was made at a press conference in Fort Portal, the kingdom's capital in western Uganda.
King Oyo Nyimba died in the United States, where he was receiving treatment. He became the world's youngest reigning monarch in 1995 when he ascended to the throne at age three, a record recognized by Guinness World Records.
The selection of Prince Kijanangoma contradicted an earlier statement by the kingdom's Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire, who had said King Oyo Nyimba left behind a child heir. The king was unmarried.
While Uganda operates as a constitutional republic, its ancient kingdoms, including Tooro, retain significant cultural and social influence. These kingdoms were established during the former British colonial period.
King Oyo Nyimba's body was returned to Uganda from the United States on Friday. His funeral was scheduled for Saturday at the royal tombs near his palace in Fort Portal. Tens of thousands of mourners were expected to attend.
Beyond his royal duties, King Oyo Nyimba served as a United Nations goodwill ambassador, championing the global fight against HIV and AIDS.
