By Evans Najuna
PARLIAMENT – Kyaka Central MP Tom Bright Amooti has paid glowing tribute to the late Omukama Rukirabasaija Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, describing his 31-year reign as a defining chapter in the history of the Tooro Kingdom.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Amooti said the late King left behind a lasting legacy in education, youth empowerment, environmental conservation, tourism, culture and unity.
Omukama Oyo ascended the Tooro throne in 1995 at just three years old, making him the youngest reigning monarch in the world at the time. He went on to reign for 31 years.
Amooti singled out the King Oyo Scholarship Fund, which he said enabled thousands of needy Batooro to access education and pursue their dreams.
The MP also hailed the late monarch for championing campaigns against HIV/AIDS, teenage pregnancy and stigma among young people.
On environmental conservation, Amooti said Omukama Oyo played a leading role in protecting the Rwenzori Mountains and the wider Tooro ecosystem through tree-planting and other conservation initiatives.
He further credited the King with promoting Tooro’s tourism, culture and unity, saying his efforts helped portray the kingdom as a symbol of peace and development.
Amooti also thanked the Government of Uganda for supporting the Tooro Kingdom throughout Omukama Oyo’s reign and during the difficult period of his send-off.
He singled out President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for what he described as a fatherly role in nurturing the young monarch.
“President Museveni stood with the King as a father,” Amooti said, highlighting the President’s role in mentoring, educating and supporting Omukama Oyo from childhood.
The MP said the President’s support had helped the young King navigate the responsibilities of leading the Tooro Kingdom from childhood into adulthood.
Amooti extended his condolences to Omugo Best Kemigisa Akiiki, the Royal Family, Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister Owek Calvin Rwomiire Akiiki, the Supreme Council and the entire Batooro community.
He described the late Omukama Oyo’s legacy as one that would continue to inspire generations of Batooro and Ugandans.
Amooti concluded his tribute with a traditional farewell to the fallen monarch: “Omukama Atulize. Enkuba Etutire. May His Soul Rest in Peace.”
