Gen Tumukunde calls for legal review to curb unchecked power in kingdoms

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The Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Gen (Rtd) Henry Tumukunde, has called for a review of the law governing cultural institutions in Uganda to clearly define their roles and strengthen their capacity to manage internal affairs independently.

Speaking on Tuesday during the coronation of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City, Gen Tumukunde warned that unchecked power centres within traditional leadership structures could become a source of national instability.He stressed that while cultural institutions must operate strictly within the bounds set by law, government intervention is required to clarify practices and prevent power struggles.

“I will be coming to you, Mr President, to seek your guidance that we may have to invite the law, sit down, and even document what is called culture. Culture must also have a role,” Gen Tumukunde said, adding that the proposed review would help establish a clear understanding of the relationship between traditional practices, cultural institutions, and the central government.

The minister noted that the decision to restore traditional institutions after years of abolition was intended to promote stability and preserve Uganda’s cultural identity. However, he emphasized that government must now work with traditional leaders to modernize operations while safeguarding their heritage.

“You remember very well that we returned the kingdoms to reverse our history — the history where the abolition of kingdoms ended in 21 years of instability,” Gen Tumukunde recalled. “Since these are your institutions, give them time and, like you have done with your coronation, organise your institution very independently.”The minister acknowledged the guidance provided by Omujwera Musuuga Charles Kamurasi during the transitional period following the passing of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.

“If I didn’t have the guidance of the Musuuga, maybe I could have made some mistakes,” Gen Tumukunde admitted, thanking Kamurasi for steering authorities through complex cultural protocols to prevent succession missteps.Paying tribute to the late King Oyo, who passed away on August 27 at the age of 34 and was laid to rest at the Karambi Royal Tombs on September 12 after a 31-year reign, Gen Tumukunde described the late monarch as an outstanding leader and a vital asset to both Uganda and the Batooro.

He further praised the outgoing Queen Mother, Best Kemigisa, alongside the Babiito royal clan, for maintaining calm and balance during a sensitive succession process, despite internal family disputes regarding potential heirs.

“I want to thank you for being so patient and calm, allowing the legal and cultural processes to take course,” Gen Tumukunde told the newly installed monarch. “I thank the Babiito clan for their great cooperation, especially Omusuuga, for remaining balanced, principled, and selfless. Despite the circumstances under which he operated, which could have swayed him in either direction, he remained steadfast.”

The coronation of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I marks the first enthronement of a Tooro king in 31 years. The main ceremony at Karuziika Palace followed traditional rites, including a procession from Rwengoma Palace through Fort Portal City and a church service at St John’s Cathedral, where Bishop Reuben Kisembo of Ruwenzori Diocese bestowed blessings upon the new monarch.

“I want to salute the memory of King Oyo for the wonderful work he did. I was very sad"

The transition follows the unexpected death of Omukama Oyo, who passed away in late August after a 31-year reign

His sureties were ordered to execute non-cash bonds of Shs2m each