Uganda’s King Oyo Nyimba, the long-serving ruler of the Tooro Kingdom, has died at the age of 34 after battling an undisclosed illness.
The king’s death was announced early Friday by Tooro Prime Minister Calvin Rwomiire Akiiki. His statement said the kingdom’s royal succession would continue, with a prince set to become the next heir.
“The continuity of the Crown is assured,” the Tooro premier’s statement said.
“His Majesty leaves behind a Prince as his heir, whose identity will be formally revealed at the appropriate time, in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom.”
Oyo’s death came as a shock to many in Uganda, as the public had not been aware that he was receiving medical treatment abroad. Authorities had earlier said that the monarch was in critical condition.
Oyo became king in 1995 when he was only three years old, following the death of his father. He was formally crowned as King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV after taking part in traditional ceremonies.
Until he turned 18, the kingdom was administered through regents. He later became known for keeping a low profile and protecting his personal life.
Oyo gained international attention as the unofficial world’s youngest king and remained unmarried at the time of his death.
