Princess Ruth Komuntale has shared an emotional farewell to her younger brother, the late Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, remembering the man behind the crown as a God-fearing, warm and deeply protective brother.
In her tribute, Komuntale looked beyond Oyo’s royal responsibilities and reflected on the sibling she knew privately — a quiet and reserved man who could keep everyone entertained once he started talking.
She recalled how Oyo could tell “story after story” and had a particular talent for impersonating people, mimicking their voices and mannerisms to make those around him laugh.
For Komuntale, some of the most precious memories were rooted in childhood.
Although Oyo was her younger brother, she said he often behaved like the older sibling because he felt responsible for protecting her and their mother after their father died.
“I suppose it was because he felt he had to protect Mama and me after Dad left us to be with the Lord,” she recalled.
Komuntale said she remained grateful for the 34 years she shared with Oyo, remembering family holidays, childhood adventures, private jokes and countless moments of laughter.
But she also saw the weight that came with his position.
“I watched my brother carry responsibilities that most people could never imagine. I watched him grow, learn, lead, pray, struggle, persevere, and love. I am incredibly proud of you, Amooti.”
She said she wished she could have had more time with her brother — more conversations, more stories and more of the impersonations that had made them laugh.
“You have left behind love. You have left behind memories. You have left behind family,” Komuntale wrote.
Oyo died on August 27, 2026, aged 34, while receiving treatment in the United States. He had been on the Tooro throne since 1995, when he became king at just three years old.
He was buried on September 12 at the Karambi Royal Tombs in Fort Portal following a funeral service at St John’s Cathedral.
His death was followed by a contested succession process. The Babiito royal clan selected Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as successor, with Musuuga Charles Kamurasi announcing him as the new king during Oyo’s funeral service. Kijanangoma was given the regnal name King Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I.
Oyo’s immediate family, including Komuntale and Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, has maintained that the late king left a will naming a son as his heir, while the Babiito clan has defended Kijanangoma’s selection under Tooro customary succession practices.
Komuntale did not address that dispute in her latest tribute.
Instead, her final words returned to the bond between brother and sister.
“So, my baby brother, rest now. Your work on this earth is done. May God receive you with open arms,” she said.
“Thank you for the life we shared. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for being my brother. I love you, and I always will. May King Oyo’s legacy live on forever.”