The National Unity Platform (NUP) has added luster to Omusinga Mumbere’s impending homecoming by delivering a 10 million shilling contribution to the Rwenzururu kingdom officials. The much-anticipated event, slated for October 4, 2023, marks Mumbere’s return to his kingdom after a seven-year absence.
NUP’s contribution is a fulfillment of a promise made by NUP principal Robert Kyagulanyi during his nationwide mobilization tour in Kasese. Local leaders in Kasese had requested support during his visit, and Kyagulanyi pledged to contribute to the cause.
David Lewis Rubongoya, the Secretary General of NUP, presented the 10 million shillings to the Rwenzururu Kingdom secretariat, which has been operating from Shilloh Hotel in Kasese town since the palace was destroyed in a UPDF raid on November 26, 2016. Rubongoya emphasized that this contribution underscores NUP’s commitment to cultural diversity and keeping its promises to the community.
In addition to financial support, Rubongoya highlighted the need for justice for those who lost their lives during the palace raid, expressing NUP’s solidarity with the people of Rwenzururu and acknowledging the hardships endured by the king and his subjects over the past seven years.
Gloria Masika, representing the Rwenzururu Kingdom secretariat, recognized the challenge of raising the required 9 billion shillings for the homecoming celebration and related activities. She called on other institutions, including political parties like DP, NRM, and FDC, to follow NUP’s lead and contribute to the cause.
Rwenzururu Kingdom Prime Minister Joseph Kule Muranga noted that despite a two-month fundraising effort, they had only collected a fraction of the required sum. The funds will be used to acquire Springs International Hotel as a new palace, finance the coronation anniversary scheduled for October 19, and facilitate the king’s return.
Mumbere had been separated from his kingdom since November 27, 2016, following his arrest during a security raid on his Buhikira Royal Palace. This raid resulted in more than 150 casualties and led to various charges against Mumbere, including murder, arson, treason, and terrorism. With October 4 set as the date for his return, the Rwenzururu kingdom is diligently working to ensure that his homecoming is a memorable and successful event.
Mumbere had been separated from his kingdom since November 27, 2016, following his arrest in a security raid on his Buhikira Royal Palace. This raid, which left more than 150 people dead, led to numerous charges against Mumbere, including murder, arson, treason, and terrorism.