Rwenzururu elders often say that a person who hides behind another’s name to start a fight only invites his own downfall. This week, that proverb returned with new urgency as the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu drew a clear and uncompromising line. The Kingdom announced that anyone who misuses its name to incite violence or confront the government should prepare to face the consequences. The message is sharp and unmistakable. Truth must prevail and deception will not be tolerated.
The warning follows violent attacks on security installations across the Rwenzori sub region on Saturday, November 1, 2025, which claimed several lives and left communities shaken. In response, both cultural and government leaders have begun an intense series of engagements aimed at dismantling the harmful narratives that drove the attackers. The first such meeting was held in Maliba sub county, the home area of some of the deceased attackers from Nyabisusi and Nyangorongo parishes.
Hon. Yowasi Thembo Mugambwa, Minister for Royal Protection and Transport, condemned the manipulation of vulnerable citizens who were deceived into believing that the Kingdom had authorised confrontations with government authorities. He stated that Obusinga remains committed to peace and has no involvement in the actions of individuals who hide behind its name for their own motives. He further revealed that the Omusinga has formally asked the government to act decisively against anyone exploiting the Kingdom’s identity, even if they occupy positions within the cultural institution.
Hon Mugambwa reminded the public of the Kingdom’s five central pillars. Peace, unity, socio economic transformation, mindset change, and rebranding remain the guiding compass for the region. He encouraged communities to embrace these values as a foundation for stability and growth.
SP Suzan Bwire Nerima, Division Police Commander of Hima, expressed disbelief that the attackers thought that pangas and catapults could be used against firearms. She described this thinking as dangerous and outdated and urged communities to reject such misguided bravado. She commended the ex royal guards for distancing themselves from the violence and confirmed that security teams are still pursuing others who took part in the attacks.
L.t Maate Magwara, Kasese Deputy RDC in charge of Bukonzo, appealed to the public to work hand in hand with the government. He emphasised that no individual or group has the right to misuse the Kingdom’s name for personal gain or influence.
Maliba sub county Chairperson Robert Mubunga Kiryamuthaka confirmed that two people died in the attacks and were buried within the community. He added that leaders must continue addressing the deep seated issues that expose citizens to manipulation.
As the Rwenzori sub region reflects on these events, several questions linger. How can communities be equipped to identify and resist lies spread by individuals who pretend to speak with cultural or spiritual authority? What long term strategies will the government and the Kingdom adopt to safeguard peace? Could these attacks reveal a deeper tension hidden beneath claims of tradition?
What remains clear is that the Kingdom and security officials are united in their call for dialogue, cooperation, and lawful conduct. Their message is firm. Peace is the only path forward and no one will be allowed to drag the name of Obusinga into acts that threaten the stability of the region.