Ndyabawe Wasswa Myres

Recently, several commentators on social media have expressed concern about the continued public presence of His Majesty Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, particularly his attendance at events, engagements with the people of Tooro, and meetings with visitors. Some have even advised that he should withdraw from frequent public engagements and appear only on rare occasions, often comparing his leadership style with that of monarchs in other kingdoms. With due respect, I believe such arguments overlook a fundamental aspect of Tooro’s history, culture and the expectations our people have of their King. The formation of Tooro Kingdom began around 1822–1826, culminating in its establishment in 1830 under Rukirabasaija Omukama Kaboyo Omuhundwangeye Kasusunkwanzi Olimi I, the first Omukama of Tooro. The movement that led to Tooro’s separation from Bunyoro-Kitara was rooted in dissatisfaction with the leadership of Omukama Nyamutukura Kyebambe III, the then ruler of Bunyoro-Kitara. Among the grievances traditionally associated with that separation was the desire for a leader who was accessible to his people. The people wanted a King they could reach, a King who would listen to their concerns, a King who would be present in their lives and a King whose leadership they could experience directly. Accessibility is therefore not merely a personal leadership style, it is an important part of the cultural expectation that Tooro places upon its King. This expectation is beautifully reflected in the second verse of the Tooro Kingdom Anthem: “Okulema kwawe kurungi, abanaku obakwatiira, abahabire obahabura, kituli kinobera abeemi.” The verse celebrates good leadership, compassion for the poor, guidance for those who have lost their way, and the strength of a leader who stands for his people. How can a King effectively listen to his people, comfort them, guide them and understand their concerns if he deliberately distances himself from them? A King cannot fully embody these values by remaining perpetually behind palace walls. To the people of Tooro, our Omukama is not simply a distant ruler seated upon a throne. He is our revered cultural leader, a source of unity, a symbol of continuity and a trusted presence in moments of joy, sorrow, uncertainty and celebration. He is a leader to whom his people look for guidance and reassurance. Our King is not expected to be a stranger to his people. He is expected to be among them. This does not mean that a King should have no privacy, personal time, or carefully managed schedule. Every leader deserves those things. Neither does it mean that every public engagement must be attended. Rather, it means that we should not mistake a King’s accessibility for a weakness, nor should we import expectations from other monarchies without considering the unique history and cultural values of our own. Different kingdoms have different traditions, histories and expectations. What works for one monarchy cannot automatically become the standard by which another must be judged. For us in Tooro, the continued presence of our King among his people is something to cherish. It is an opportunity to strengthen the bond between the throne and the people, preserve our cultural identity and ensure that the institution of the Omukama remains connected to the community it represents. Your Majesty, thank you for continuing to engage with your people, attend Kingdom functions, receive visitors and remain present in the life of Tooro. May your reign continue to be characterised by accessibility, humility, compassion and a deep commitment to the people whose cultural heritage you embody. Olemereho Agutamba! Hangiriza Omwebingwa! Long live His Majesty Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I! Long live Tooro Kingdom!