Uganda’s King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who was recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s youngest reigning monarch, has died at the age of 34.
King Oyo became the ruler of the Tooro Kingdom in western Uganda in 1995 at just three years old, following the death of his father.
The cause of his death has not been disclosed. However, a Ugandan government minister was quoted by local media as saying the monarch had been critically ill and was receiving treatment in the United States.
Oyo, who was the 13th monarch of the Tooro Kingdom, ruled over a population of more than two million people.
His death was announced by Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, who described the monarch’s passing on Thursday, August 27, as an “immeasurable loss” to the royal family and the people of Tooro.
“I call upon all the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during this profoundly difficult time,” Akiiki said on Friday. “May His Majesty the King rest in eternal peace.”
The Tooro Kingdom follows a hereditary system of succession, with the monarchy passed down through the royal family.
Although King Oyo was not officially married, the prime minister said the continuity of the Crown was assured, revealing that the late monarch had a son who would succeed him.
“His Majesty leaves behind a Prince as his heir, whose identity will be formally revealed at the appropriate time, in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom,” Akiiki explained.
When Oyo ascended the throne in 1995, a regency was established, including his mother, the Queen Mother, to oversee the kingdom until he reached adulthood. He was formally crowned at the age of 18.
