UPDF: Denies Tooro Royal Guards Withdrawal, Explains Palace Security

• The UPDF denied claims of withdrawing Tooro Royal Guards from Karuziika Royal Palace or placing the royal family under house arrest.
• The military clarified that its increased presence at the palace is for security during King Oyo's burial and due to regional threats from eastern DRC.
• A succession dispute is ongoing within the Tooro Kingdom, with conflicting claims regarding King Oyo's heir, adding tension around the royal palace.
• UPDF Commander Land Forces, Lt General Kayanja Muhanga, visited the palace to pay respects and inspect engineering works for the burial site.
• The UPDF affirmed its neutrality in the succession dispute and committed to ensuring security and safety for mourners during this period.

The UPDF has officially refuted allegations concerning the security arrangements at Karuziika Royal Palace, specifically denying claims that it withdrew the Tooro Royal Guards or placed Queen Mother Best Kemigisa and other members of the royal family under house arrest.

The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has officially refuted allegations concerning the security arrangements at Karuziika Royal Palace, specifically denying claims that it withdrew the Tooro Royal Guards or placed Queen Mother Best Kemigisa and other members of the royal family under house arrest. These clarifications were issued by UPDF spokesperson Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye on Friday, following accusations from the Queen Mother that authorities had restricted the royal family's movement and replaced traditional palace guards with a significant military presence.

Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye emphasized that the Tooro Royal Guards remain in place and dismissed any suggestion of a lockdown within the palace. Instead, the UPDF explained that its increased presence around the Karuziika Royal Palace security perimeter is a measure to enhance safety, necessitated by the large number of people gathering for the upcoming burial of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. This reinforcement also addresses broader security concerns, including potential threats stemming from the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The military further detailed that movements in and around the palace are now subject to close monitoring. Additional access control measures, such as thorough searches and checks, have been implemented to ensure the safety and security of all individuals present during this sensitive period. The UPDF maintains that these actions are purely for security reinforcement and do not constitute a withdrawal of existing royal protection or an imposition of restrictions on the royal family's liberty.

The UPDF's clarification comes amidst heightened tensions surrounding the Tooro Kingdom succession dispute, which coincides with the preparations for King Oyo's burial on Saturday, September 12. The late monarch passed away in the United States last month, and his passing has triggered a disagreement over who should rightfully succeed him. This internal royal family dynamic adds a layer of complexity to the security situation at the palace.

A faction within the Babiito royal clan recently declared Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the new king. However, this announcement has been firmly rejected by the royal family. Queen Mother Kemigisa and Princess Ruth Komuntale have publicly stated that the late King Oyo left a written will designating his young son as his successor, with further details expected to be disclosed after the burial proceedings are concluded.

This unresolved succession disagreement has undeniably amplified the existing tension around the royal palace, particularly as Fort Portal prepares to welcome numerous mourners and dignitaries ahead of the funeral. The military's increased presence, therefore, is not only a response to the large gathering but also an attempt to manage the security implications of these internal royal family dynamics.

Despite its heightened security presence, the UPDF has explicitly stated its neutrality regarding the Tooro Kingdom succession dispute, with Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye affirming that the military is not privy to or involved in these internal processes. The Uganda military Tooro security efforts extend beyond mere patrols, encompassing significant logistical and infrastructural support for the royal family during this period of mourning.

In a show of respect and support, Lt General Kayanja Muhanga, the UPDF Commander Land Forces, visited the palace. His visit served a dual purpose: to pay his last respects to King Oyo and to inspect the ongoing works being carried out by the UPDF Engineering Brigade. This brigade is actively involved in preparing the Royal Tombs and improving the roads leading to the burial site, ensuring that all arrangements are in place for the official ceremony.

Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye conveyed that the Commander Land Forces expressed satisfaction with the progress made by the Engineering Brigade, confident that the works would be completed well in advance of the official burial. The UPDF, in collaboration with other security forces, has also extended its heartfelt condolences to the royal family and the people of Tooro, reaffirming its commitment to providing all necessary support to guarantee security, maintain calm, and ensure the safety of mourners throughout this period of grief.

This story primarily concerns a military clarification on security arrangements and internal royal family dynamics, not a direct legal or compliance development that would require action from a typical lawyer or compliance officer. It's more of a factual update on a high-profile security situation.

Source: Original reporting via Nile Post