The Tooro Kingdom has dismissed widespread social media reports claiming that King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV is critically ill and admitted to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in the United States, describing the claims as false and misleading.
Over the weekend, social media platforms were awash with allegations that the 34-year-old monarch was receiving treatment for cancer in the United States, triggering concern among his subjects and members of the public.
However, in a statement issued on Monday, the Tooro Kingdom said the reports were untrue and reassured the public that the Omukama is in good health.
“We wish to reassure all our people that His Majesty is in good health. He is currently abroad for official engagements and to further his studies,” the Kingdom said.
The Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to providing accurate and timely information through its official communication channels, urging the public to disregard unverified reports circulating online.
“The Kingdom remains committed to keeping our people informed through timely, accurate and official communication on matters of public interest. We encourage everyone to rely only on information released via the Kingdom’s official channels,” the statement added.
The institution also condemned what it described as malicious rumours and defamatory misinformation, saying such claims create unnecessary anxiety, undermine public trust and do not serve the interests of the people of Tooro.
The Kingdom called upon its subjects and well-wishers to promote truth, unity and responsible communication as it continues carrying out its duties.
The clarification follows days of speculation on social media regarding the monarch’s health, with the Kingdom maintaining that King Oyo is abroad for official engagements and further studies, and is not receiving medical treatment as alleged.
