UMSC Pays Tribute to Late Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru
The Deputy Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, has signed the condolence book in honour of the late Omukama of Tooro Kingdom, His Majesty Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died recently at the age of 34.
Sheikh Waiswa represented the Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, at the ceremony held at the late King Oyo’s residence in Buziga, Kampala, on Tuesday, where dignitaries gathered to express solidarity with the people of Tooro following the death of their young monarch.
Sheikh Waiswa was accompanied by several UMSC officials, including Sheikh Abdu-Barr Muhammad Kalozi, Secretary for Zakah; Sheikh Twaha Uthuman Musa Kajaaya, Special Envoy of the Mufti to the Republic of South Sudan; Hon. Hajjat Sophie Safina Kenyangi, Chairperson of the National Muslim Women Council; Sheikh Abdu-Karim Katamba, Director of Halal; Mulangira Habib Musa Mawanda, Private Secretary to the Mufti; and Sheikh Hussein Ghalib, Bunyoro-Tooro Muslim Regional Assistant to the Mufti.
The delegation was warmly received by officials from the Tooro Kingdom. Sheikh Waiswa was ushered into a large tent where a portrait of the late King was displayed, before signing the condolence book. He later proceeded to the main house, where he met the Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister (Omuhikirwa), Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, and other kingdom officials.
On behalf of the Mufti and the entire Muslim community in Uganda, Sheikh Waiswa read a two-page condolence message expressing sorrow over the death of the young monarch while acknowledging Allah’s decree. “The passing of King Oyo at such a tender age is painful and difficult to comprehend. Nevertheless, we submit to the decree of Almighty Allah,” the message stated.
The Mufti noted that King Oyo had occupied a unique place in Uganda’s and the world’s history after ascending the throne in 1995 at only three years of age. “He carried the responsibility of preserving the crown, cultural heritage and dignity of the Tooro Kingdom. He promoted unity, peace and harmonious coexistence among Ugandans,” the message added.
The condolence message also recognised King Oyo’s contribution to the fight against HIV/AIDS, particularly his efforts to encourage young people to protect their health and reject stigma. It further highlighted his advocacy for environmental conservation, sports and youth empowerment.
“His passing is a great loss not only to the Royal Family but also to all Ugandans. We pray to Almighty Allah to grant the Royal Family courage, comfort and strength during this period of mourning,” Mufti Mubaje said in the message.
Omuhikirwa Rwomiire expressed appreciation for the condolence message and shared with the delegation some of the final moments he spent with the late King.
He also pledged to keep the public informed about the burial arrangements as plans continue to unfold.