Please Don’t Marry Another Wife; Bishop Advises New Tooro King Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I

The newly enthroned Omukama of Tooro, Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, has been urged to remain faithful to his wife, Queen Rebecca Amoding Rukidi, with the Bishop of Ruwenzori Diocese, Rt Rev Reuben Kisembo, advising him against taking a second wife.

Bishop Kisembo delivered the message during a church service in Fort Portal City on Tuesday morning, shortly before Nyabongo I proceeded to Karuziika Palace for his formal coronation. The King attended the service alongside Queen Rebecca and members of the Babiito royal family.

The bishop urged the new King to build his reign around unity, accountability, education, youth empowerment and environmental conservation. He also called for the Tooro Kingdom Supreme Council to be strengthened and adequately facilitated so that it can effectively perform its responsibilities.

Kisembo further asked the new administration to establish strong financial accountability systems, maintain proper books of accounts and ensure that the kingdom’s finances are audited every year. He also advised Nyabongo to clearly separate kingdom property from his personal assets to avoid future ownership disputes.

The Bishop also urged the King to focus on young people by encouraging them to work, acquire skills and avoid idleness. He called for greater emphasis on education and asked parents to take responsibility for ensuring their children attend school.

On environmental conservation, Kisembo encouraged Nyabongo to continue programmes started during the reign of the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, particularly tree-planting initiatives. He also appealed to the people of Tooro to support the new King and work with him in advancing the kingdom.

The bishop also welcomed Queen Rebecca Amoding, who comes from the Teso community, and urged the Batooro to embrace her and give her an opportunity to learn and participate in Tooro’s cultural traditions. His message came as the new King begins his reign following a contested succession process after the death of Oyo.

However, Kisembo reserved a personal message for Nyabongo regarding his marriage, reminding him that he made vows before God when he married Queen Rebecca. “Our King is a Christian King, and I am advising you that you already have a wife and you made vows in church. I want you to keep that vow. We pray that you maintain that monogamy. As a church, we discourage polygamy,” the Bishop said.