The royal palace in Fort Portal was draped in black on Tuesday as the Tooro Kingdom entered a period of official mourning following the announcement by Omukama Oyo Nyimba Iguru that the late monarch, His Majesty King Oyo, had passed away. The king, who ruled for 23 years, succumbed to complications from a long‑standing illness, according to a statement released by the royal household. The announcement sparked an outpouring of grief across western Uganda, with traditional drums beating in solemn rhythm and citizens gathering at the palace gates to pay their respects. A week‑long mourning period has been declared, during which all public celebrations will be suspended and flags will fly at half‑mast. The royal council has convened to discuss the succession process, which according to Tooro customs will involve the selection of a new Omukama from among the king’s surviving brothers and cousins. The nation awaits further details on the funeral arrangements, which are expected to blend traditional rites with modern state protocols.
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