Tooro Prince David Kijanangoma Araali, elder brother to Prince Edward Kijanangoma Amooti, who was recently announced as the new Omukama (King) of Tooro, died, Ugandan media reported on Tuesday, September 15.

The prince died at the Uganda Cancer Institute in Mulago. His death was confirmed by Tooro Kingdom spokesperson Vincent Mugume.

He had reportedly been battling Stage Three throat cancer for more than a year.

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In April, David Kijanangoma’s family appealed for financial assistance after his condition deteriorated. He was undergoing chemotherapy at Nakasero Hospital and the Uganda Cancer Institute, with about Shs700 million needed to facilitate specialised treatment in India.

His death comes as the Tooro royal family deals with a major transition following the death and burial of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV and the ensuing succession dispute.

Kijanangoma was also a prominent and controversial figure in Tooro’s recent history. In 2015, he openly challenged King Oyo’s leadership, accusing the monarch, his cousin, of failing to properly execute his responsibilities. He later declared himself king, triggering a dispute within the royal family.

He was a grandson of former Tooro King Omukama Sir George David Rukidi III.

His death comes only days after Tooro buried King Oyo at the Karambi Royal Tombs. Further details on Prince David Kijanangoma’s burial arrangements and the official programme are expected to be announced by the family and Tooro Kingdom authorities.