Political strategist Egesa Ronald has weighed in on the growing controversy surrounding the death of King Oyo of Tooro Kingdom, criticising journalist and political commentator Andrew Mwenda over his remarks concerning the succession process.
In a strongly worded statement, Egesa praised Queen Mother Best Kemigisa for what he described as her decision to keep details surrounding the future leadership of the kingdom private.
Egesa argued that Mwenda’s criticism of the Queen Mother over transparency appeared inconsistent with positions he has taken when discussing Uganda’s political system and elections.
“God Bless Queen Mother Best Kemigisa! She has riled up Andrew Mwenda in a way no TV debate or epistle from the powerful can ever do,” Egesa said.
He accused Mwenda of defending political leaders who remain in power through what he described as questionable or opaque electoral processes, arguing that such positions contrasted with his demand for openness from the Tooro royal establishment.
“Now, the same Mwenda is accusing the Queen Mother of not being transparent about the heir to the throne of the fallen King Oyo,” he added.
The remarks come amid heightened public interest in the future of the Tooro Kingdom following the reported death of King Oyo, who had occupied the throne for decades.
The succession of a cultural institution such as Tooro's monarchy carries significant social and historical importance in western Uganda, with royal decisions often attracting attention beyond the kingdom.
Egesa further drew parallels between the debate over royal succession and Uganda’s electoral politics. He argued that the principles of transparency and legitimacy should be applied consistently, regardless of whether the issue concerns traditional leadership or elected political office.
The strategist also criticised what he portrayed as a contradiction in Mwenda’s views on leadership, saying Ugandans should have a say in determining who leads them politically while traditional institutions have their own established succession traditions.
“Ugandans don't want computer and military generated leaders in much the same way that he detests kings born of 'street prostitutes' or maids,” Egesa said.
He described the confrontation between Mwenda and the Queen Mother as a political and public-relations battle, portraying Kemigisa as an experienced figure navigating a sensitive period for the kingdom.
“In coming up against Best Kemigisa in the manner he has, Mwenda has found himself as a leader of opposition that is up against a wily incumbent,” Egesa stated.
The strategist concluded his remarks with a reference to what he called “karma”, suggesting that the current dispute had exposed contradictions in the positions taken by those involved.
The controversy is likely to persist as attention remains focused on the Tooro Kingdom and the process surrounding the succession to the late King Oyo.