Court finally orders Bunyoro king be airlifted for treatment in India

by · The Observer
Bunyoro Kitara king Dr Solomon Gafabusa

Hoima High court justice Jesse Byaruhanga has ruled that Bunyoro Kitara king Dr Solomon Gafabusa Agutamba Rukirabasiija Iguru be taken for specialized medical treatment in India.

The ruling follows a 2014 application filed by prince Apolo Kisoro, the former Bunyoro minister for tourism and personal assistant to the king, seeking urgent medical care for the monarch.

In his petition, Kisoro argued that the king’s health was deteriorating while those responsible for his care showed little concern. He said he had secured appointments with hospitals in New Delhi, India, and raised sufficient funds to cover the king’s medical expenses, travel, and attendants.

On Thursday, the High court in Hoima ruled in favour of Kisoro’s application, ordering that King Iguru be taken for specialized medical treatment either in India or any hospital worldwide with top-tier medical facilities. The court affirmed that the king, like any other individual, is entitled to proper healthcare, regardless of his current condition.

“This application has been in court for the last 10 years but I am happy with the ruling,” Kisoro said.

Kisoro’s legal team, represented by Jotham Mugarura and Elias Tumwebaze, emphasized that the king had been unwell and required immediate medical attention, both domestically and abroad. They stressed that the king’s recovery would enable him to resume his official duties.

Bunyoro’s prime minister, Andrew Byakutaga, acknowledged the court ruling, stating that the king’s family and legal team would manage the matter. He noted that King Iguru has already received treatment both within Uganda and overseas.

Chief prince (Okwiri) Eng Fred Mugenyi Rucunya welcomed the ruling, noting that the king has been unable to perform his royal duties for nearly seven years due to illness.

Escalating tensions

The court case has highlighted underlying tensions within the Bunyoro kingdom. Conflicts have recently escalated between the ruling Babiito clan and prime minister Byakutaga. On September 2, 2024, the Babiito clan dismissed Byakutaga from his position and appointed an interim cabinet, adding to the kingdom’s administrative unrest.

Yoasi Isingoma, a close friend of the king and witness in the case, stated that the decision to take the matter to court was prompted by delays in providing the king with the necessary medical care.

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