Phones, Bags Banned at Karuziika Palace Ahead of King Oyo’s Burial

Karuziika Palace has introduced restrictions on phones and personal belongings as the Tooro Kingdom prepares for King Oyo’s burial.

Phones and bags have been banned inside Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal as the Tooro Kingdom steps up security ahead of the burial of the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.

The restrictions apply to mourners and members of the public visiting the palace to pay their final respects to the late Omukama, whose body has been lying in state ahead of his burial.

Officials overseeing the funeral arrangements said visitors entering the viewing area are not allowed to carry mobile phones or other personal belongings.

The decision followed concerns over the recording and circulation of images of the late King’s body on social media.

Members of the public have been advised to leave their phones and other belongings behind before entering the designated viewing area.

Other items reportedly restricted from the viewing area include watches, eyeglasses, pens and bags.

The measures are part of arrangements to maintain order and protect the dignity of the late King during the final period of public viewing.

The public viewing is expected to end on Friday, September 11, ahead of the main burial ceremonies scheduled for Saturday, September 12.

King Oyo’s body is expected to be taken from Karuziika Palace to St John’s Cathedral in Fort Portal for the main funeral service before being transported to the Karambi Royal Tombs, where he will be laid to rest.

The late King Oyo died in the United States on August 27, 2026, at the age of 34. He became the Omukama of Tooro in 1995 at the age of three and remained on the throne for more than three decades.

His burial is expected to draw dignitaries, members of the Tooro royal family and mourners from across Uganda and beyond.