Rwenzururu Kingdom in Kasese District is making preparations for the 57th coronation anniversary of Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere Iremangoma. This event holds special significance as it marks the first coronation anniversary celebrated since November 2016 when Omusinga Mumbere was arrested along with his royal guards.
Omusinga Mumbere ascended to the throne 57 years ago, succeeding his father, Isaya Mukirania Kibanzanga, who was the first king of Rwenzururu Kingdom and passed away in 1966. The government officially recognized Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu in 2009, making this year the 14th anniversary of the cultural institution’s recognition.
Rwenzururu Kingdom’s coronation anniversary celebrations have been suspended for the past seven years due to legal issues. Omusinga Mumbere and 217 of his subjects faced charges in the International Crimes Division of the High Court. The kingdom decided to wait until he was freed from these charges, which finally happened in June after the Directorate of Public Prosecutions dropped all charges against him. On October 4, Omusinga Mumbere returned to his kingdom and will participate in this year’s anniversary celebrations.
Gad Baluku Mbayahi, the chairperson of the coronation anniversary celebration organizing sub-committee, emphasized cultural norms for attire during the event. Women are expected to dress modestly, avoiding trousers, skimpy, and revealing outfits. He also noted that the kingdom had raised Shs100 million of the budgeted Shs270 million for the celebration, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency in funding their programs.
The Rwenzururu Kingdom has extended invitations to various central government officials and has invited President Museveni to be the chief guest at the coronation anniversary. Additionally, preparations for the event include activities such as a tree planting exercise and general cleaning of Kasese Town.
