The Bishop of Rwenzori Diocese, Rt. Rev. Reuben Kisembo Amooti has stressed Christian marriage principles as the Tooro Kingdom crowns its new king, Rukirabasaija Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I at Karuziika Royal Palace in Fort Portal.
The remarks come as Omukama Nyabongo I takes the throne in a coronation ceremony that brings together traditional Tooro customs and Christian observance.
The new Omukama was accompanied by his wife, Rebecca Amoding-Rukidi, as he formally assumes the cultural leadership of the Tooro Kingdom.
Bishop Kisembo advocated for monogamy while delivering his sermon on September 29th, 2026, at Rugatwa St. John’s Cathedral Church of Uganda part in the coronation programme of Omukama Nyabongo I, with the ceremony incorporating a Christian service alongside traditional royal rites.
“I know Omukama follows Christianity, and the Christian marriage vows specify one wife, one woman,” Bishop Kisembo said.
His comments spotlight the king’s Christian faith and the expectations of Christian marriage as the new reign begins, and also raise concerns about whether the new Omukama’s sons will succeed him since they’re not born from a Mutooro woman as per customs.
Bishop Kisembo has previously spoken about marriage in relation to the Tooro monarchy. In 2024, he called on the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV to consider marriage, stressing the importance of family and continuity within the royal institution.
Rukirabasaija Nyabongo I is succeeding the late Omukama Oyo, who died on August 27th, 2026.
His succession follows his selection by the Ababiito Royal Clan and endorsement by the Rukurato Rw’Obukama Bwa Tooro.
