Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom security forces vacate Hoima premises

Security forces, including the Uganda People’s Defence Forces and anti-riot police, recently vacated the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom premises in Hoima following a period of heightened surveillance. The deployment was intended to prevent unrest and protect the Omukama, employees, and property amid intelligence regarding potential youth demonstrations.

The security presence follows a leadership dispute between the Babiito ruling clan and Kingdom Prime Minister Andrew Byakutaga. Eng. Fred Mugenyi Rucunya, representing the Babiito through the Okwir, issued an ultimatum for Byakutaga to vacate his office by mid-October 2026, arguing his tenure had expired. While Byakutaga received extensions through June 2024, Rucunya contested the authority of the Royal Commission to grant such extensions and raised concerns regarding transparency and management.