FORT PORTAL — Vice President Jessica Alupo has paid tribute to the late Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, recognising his contribution to cultural preservation, national unity, youth empowerment, public health, education and tourism.
“It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss that I join the Royal Family, the people of Tooro Kingdom and the entire nation of Uganda in mourning the passing of your beloved King, His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the King of Tooro Kingdom,” Alupo said.
Addressing thousands of mourners at the Karuzika Palace in Fort Portal on Sunday, Alupo joined President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the people of Uganda and others from around the world in extending her heartfelt condolences to the Babiito Royal Family, the Queen Mother, Best Kemigisa, the subjects of Tooro Kingdom and all those who were touched by the life and leadership of King Oyo.
She said King Oyo occupied a unique place in the hearts of Ugandans and in the history of the country.
“He ascended to the throne at the tender age of three and grew into a respected young monarch who carried the hopes and aspirations of his people with dignity and commitment. It goes without a doubt that during his reign, he became an important symbol of Tooro’s rich cultural heritage, identity and unity,” Alupo said.
The Vice President said King Oyo demonstrated that cultural institutions have an important role to play in preserving Uganda’s heritage while also contributing to the social and economic transformation of communities.
“His leadership went beyond the preservation of culture, but contributed to the welfare and future of many Ugandans, especially the young people.
His initiatives in tourism, education, health, environment, youth empowerment and community development demonstrated his love for a transformed Uganda,” she said.
Alupo urged mourners to remember that the measure of a leader is not merely the length of time spent in office, but the positive impact made during that period.
She noted that although King Oyo’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 34, he left behind a legacy that would continue to inspire the people of Tooro and Uganda.
“His legacy should be a moment of reflection for all of us and remind us of the importance of unity, respect for our cultural institutions, preservation of our heritage and the responsibility we all have to build a peaceful and prosperous Uganda,” she said.
As Ugandans bid farewell to King Oyo, Alupo called upon the public to celebrate the life he lived, the people he served and the legacy he left behind.
She conveyed her thoughts and prayers to the Queen Mother, the Royal Family and the people of Tooro Kingdom during the difficult period of mourning.
“May God grant the Royal Family strength, courage and comfort as you go through this period of grief. May the people of Tooro remain united, peaceful and strong during this period of mourning.
“ENKUBA ETUTIIRE. AMATA GATIKIRE.”
“May His Majesty’s soul rest in eternal peace.”
