The Minister for Local Government, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has mourned the death of Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV as the monarch’s remains return home from the United States, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
In a message shared as the king’s remains were transported from the US, Ateenyi described the return as a painful moment for the Tooro Kingdom, particularly for the late monarch’s mother, Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, the Royal Family and his subjects.
“The remains (Omuguta) of our beloved His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, King of Tooro, leaving the United States, where he had been receiving treatment, now returning home to his mother, his Royal Family and his beloved Kingdom of Tooro,” Ateenyi said.
The minister described the late king as a young, humble and kind monarch who, despite having access to some of the best resources available globally, was now being brought back to his homeland under circumstances of profound grief.
Ateenyi used the occasion to reflect on the unpredictability of life, noting that death ultimately transcends social status, wealth and privilege.
“A young, humble and kind King, only 34, who had access to the best resources the world could offer, is now being brought home in the most painful of circumstances,” he said.
“It reminds us that, despite our titles, wealth, privilege and possessions, we are all travellers in this world. Death does not discriminate.”
The minister accompanied his message with a Bible verse from Psalm 23:4, saying: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.”
Ateenyi prayed for comfort for Queen Mother Kemigisa, the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and everyone affected by the king’s death.
“May the Almighty God receive the soul of Rukirabasaija Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV and comfort his mother, the Royal Family, the Kingdom of Tooro and all who mourn this heartbreaking loss,” he said.
King Oyo died in the United States on August 27, 2026, aged 34, after receiving treatment for cancer. He ascended the Tooro throne in 1995 at the age of three following the death of his father, King Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III.
His remains are being returned to Uganda as the Tooro Kingdom prepares for a period of mourning and a series of cultural and religious ceremonies ahead of his burial.
Concluding his tribute, Ateenyi described the late monarch’s legacy as one that would endure beyond his reign.
“Rukirabasaija, rest in eternal peace. Your reign may have been too short, but your memory shall live forever,” he said.