The Omukama of Bunyoro, Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, has been discharged from Ruby Hospital in Kampala, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, confirmed the news, expressing his gratitude for the care and support extended during the Omukama's hospitalisation.
"Praise the Lord! Our beloved Omukama has been discharged from the hospital. Heartfelt thanks to the specialist doctors, the royal family, and Omugo Adyeri Karunga for their unwavering support during this challenging time," Barugahara said.
He also acknowledged the support of President Museveni and Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the leader of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU).
"We are deeply grateful for the kind gestures from President Museveni and Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Their support meant a lot to us during the Omukama's time of need," he added.
Barugahara encouraged the people of Bunyoro-Kitara to continue praying for the Omukama’s full recovery.
"We continue to pray for our king's complete recovery. God bless our king, Uganda, and Bunyoro-Kitara," he said.
The Omukama’s health has been a matter of concern for his subjects, and news of his discharge has brought relief to many. With his return home, attention now turns to his recovery process.
The minister’s statement underscores the widespread support from both the royal family and the central government during this crucial period for the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom.
Omukama Iguru was recently airlifted to Kampala for specialised medical treatment. He was accompanied by his wife, Omugo Margaret Karunga Adyeri, and Prince Richard Kitehimbwa, the Minister of Palace Affairs and his Principal Private Secretary.
Recently, Hoima High Court Judge Jesse Byaruhanga ordered that the Omukama be taken for specialised treatment, potentially in India. The ruling stemmed from a 2014 application filed by Prince Apolo Kisoro, the former Bunyoro Kingdom Minister for Tourism and Personal Assistant to the King, who sought to ensure the Omukama received appropriate medical care for his deteriorating health.
Prince Kisoro argued that the King’s health had been neglected by those responsible for his care, despite arrangements being made for medical treatment in New Delhi, India.
The court emphasised the Omukama's right to healthcare, regardless of his status, and ordered further medical examinations if needed.
The Omukama's health concerns come amid rising tensions within the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom's administration, highlighting the urgency of ensuring his well-being.