In a momentous and joyous occasion, thousands of people from various walks of life descended upon Rwenzori region to celebrate the returnb of His Majesty King Charles Wesley Mumbere Irema-Ngoma to the Rwenzururu Kingdom. The king's homecoming, following his release on
June 13, 2023, after facing charges of treason, murder, attempted murder, and more, marked a significant turning point for the region and its people.
The Omusinga, who had been barred from accessing his kingdom as part of his bail conditions, was greeted with immense enthusiasm and excitement by his subjects and well-wishers alike. The king's return was not just a personal triumph but also a symbol of hope,
reconciliation, and unity for the Rwenzori region.
The celebrations began days in advance, with people from Kasese,
Bundibugyo, Kabarole, Bunyangabu, Kampala, and beyond converging in Kasese town. Social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and
YouTube buzzed with videos of vibrant dancing groups at various trading centers across the region.
The anticipation reached its peak as thousands thronged Kasese
airfield, eagerly awaiting the arrival of King Charles. Chairman OBR
Privy Council Walemba Nathaniel Mumbere had earlier hinted that the
king would arrive by plane, adding an air of excitement to the event.
Remarkably, despite many individuals going without food throughout the day, their spirits remained high, a testament to the significance of this homecoming. The resilience and unwavering support of the people of Rwenzururu shone through as they celebrated this historic moment.
During his address to the gathered audience, His Majesty King Charles
Wesley Mumbere Irema-Ngoma expressed his heartfelt appreciation for
the unending love shown by the people of Rwenzururu towards their kingdom. He also recognized the dedication of officials, including legislators in the district, who stood by the kingdom during
challenging times. The king extended his gratitude to cultural leaders for preserving the kingdom's identity despite financial challenges.
Moreover, King Mumbere acknowledged the divine intervention that led to the dropping of charges against him and others. Retired Bishop of the Church of Uganda South Ruwenzori Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Jackson Thembo Nzerebende, representing religious leaders, thanked God for the happiness that had returned to the Rwenzori region.
He emphasized the need for an OBR ministry to coordinate with church
leaders, highlighting the kingdom's renewed focus on tourism,
peace-building, reconciliation, cultural norms, and education.
The bishop also unveiled the kingdom's upcoming five-point program,
aimed at positioning Rwenzururu as a premier tourist destination in
Uganda. However, he cautioned against dangerous activities such as drunkenness and theft, emphasizing that these behaviors hinder development.
Honorable Sowedi Kitanywa, the MP for Busongora South Constituency,
emphasized unity, peace, mindset change, reconciliation, and
social-economic transformation as key factors for the kingdom's
rebranding.
He commended the government for releasing King Mumbere and others, urging the kingdom's subjects to embrace reconciliation and embark on a new journey toward development.
MP Gideon Tembo Mujungu, representing Busongora South Constituency,
echoed the sentiment of reconciliation and unity, emphasizing the importance of loving one another and working together as a united
family. He also praised the government's proposal to develop the
Kasese airstrip, a move he believed would contribute significantly to the kingdom's development.
Saul Mate, the opposition Forum for Democratic Change party leader in
Kasese district, called on the government not to obstruct those wishing to offer gifts to the king. He acknowledged the overwhelming
happiness in the kingdom and urged for the renovation of the palace, which had been damaged during previous events.
Florence Kabugho, the woman MP for Kasese district, expressed gratitude for the joyous atmosphere but requested government support in renovating the palace, given its role in the past events. She also called for the involvement of recently released royal guards, widows, and orphans in government programs, including PDM Emyooga, to ensure their well-being and integration into society.
Christopher Kibanzanga Bwambale, the chief prince, urged Rwenzururu subjects to leave behind the pain of the past seven years and focus on a rebranded kingdom.
He highlighted the return of King Charles as a symbol of reconciliation with government powers, paving the way for a brighter future for the region's youth.
The locals, overwhelmed with happiness, praised God for His enduring love and expressed their gratitude for the return of their beloved King. For many, witnessing an aircraft land at such close proximity was a first-time experience, further adding to their jubilation.
Erifazi Muhindi Bukombi, the Kasese district boss, confirmed the king's arrival and emphasized that God had made it possible.
After a majestic welcome at the airfield, all attendees marched in unison and gathered at Golf-Post in Basecamp Kasese municipality. It was here that various dignitaries delivered speeches, officially marking this
historic and joyous homecoming.
In a remarkable display of unity, reconciliation, and hope, the people of Rwenzururu celebrated the return of King Charles Wesley Mumbere Irema-Ngoma, igniting a new chapter in the rebranded kingdom's
history. The king's release and homecoming were not just a cause for
celebration but a call for continued unity, peace, and development in
the Rwenzori region.
ENDS
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