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Bunyoro–Bunyoro Kingdom on edge over planned Regent installation.
Government has been called upon to urgently intervene in the affairs of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom to avert a looming leadership crisis.
The tension follows an ultimatum issued by the Okwiri (Chief Prince), Eng Fred Ruchunya Mugenyi, who heads the Babiito clan and holds powers delegated to him by Omukama Solomon Gafabusa Iguru.
The Okwiri directed Mr Andrew Byakutaga, whose tenure as Omuhikirwa (Prime Minister) is said to have ended in 2024, to vacate office by October 15, 2026.
Sources claim the directive caused panic among a section of kingdom officials, with allegations that Prince Richard Kitehimbwa, the eldest son of the Omukama, together with Mr Byakutaga, is mobilising some clan heads to install the Prince as Regent King on October 10 and 11, 2026.
Traditionally, the Okwiri, as head of the Babiito clan, is supposed to lead any such process. Sources allege the current Okwiri is being sidelined because he has been demanding accountability for billions of shillings received from government and other sources. Under tradition, only the Omukama can remove the Okwiri, or he resigns voluntarily.
Cultural leaders warn that installing a Regent while the Omukama is still alive is an abomination in Bunyoro culture, as there cannot be two kings at the same time.
A previous attempt to create a Regency was rejected by the High Court on grounds that Omukama Iguru is still alive.
Observers warn that if not stopped, the planned meetings could plunge the kingdom into confusion similar to what was witnessed in Tooro.
It is also recalled that last year, the Omukama was critically ill and was airlifted for specialised treatment on the orders of President Museveni.
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