Princess Ruth Komuntale, also known as Omujwera Batebe, has shared an emotional farewell to her younger brother, the late Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, remembering him not only as a king but as her “baby brother.”
King Oyo died on August 27, 2026, aged 34, while receiving treatment in the United States. He had been Tooro’s monarch since 1995, when he was crowned as a toddler following the death of their father. He was buried on September 12 at the Karambi Royal Tombs in Fort Portal.
In a tribute shared on X, Princess Ruth focused on their personal relationship, recalling Oyo as a God-fearing, quiet and reserved person who would become lively and entertaining once he opened up.
She remembered his talent for impersonations, saying his ability to mimic voices and mannerisms often brought laughter to the family.
Although he was her younger brother, Ruth said Oyo often behaved like the older sibling, taking responsibility for protecting her and their mother following their father’s death in 1995.
She also reflected on the 34 years they shared, from childhood mischief and family holidays to Christmas trips to Fort Portal, playing with cousins and dogs, and later working out together, with Oyo serving as her training partner.
Ruth recalled his love for sports, farming—particularly his cows—movies, dancing, journaling, studying scripture and learning.
“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 wrote.
The princess said she wished they had more time together, particularly to hear his voice, stories, impersonations and private jokes.
In her closing message, she described the love and memories Oyo left behind before bidding him farewell.
“You have left behind love. You have left behind memories. You have left behind family… So, my baby brother, rest now. Your work on this earth is done. May God receive you with open arms. 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.”
An earlier eulogy delivered during the funeral service also shed light on Oyo’s private battle with angiosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. According to the family account, he was diagnosed in mid-October 2025 after experiencing pain in Uganda for more than a year.
The family kept his illness private at his request, as he reportedly remained hopeful of recovering and did not want to cause panic.
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