King of Tooro-designate Edward Rukidi Nyabongo 1 has closed all his personal social media accounts and appointed a spokesperson to handle his public communication ahead of his coronation.
Nyabongo appointed Paul Nyakaana Businge Akiiki as his interim Principal Personal Secretary (PPS) and spokesperson, giving him responsibility for all official communication on behalf of the incoming king.
Akiiki announced his appointment on Wednesday, September 17, 2026, while reading a statement from Nyabongo.
In the statement, Nyabongo said Akiiki would immediately take charge of his communications.
“I wish to inform you that I have appointed Mr Nyakaana Paul Businge Akiiki as my interim Principal Personal Secretary (PPS)/spokesperson to immediately take charge. He will officially be handling all my communications,” Nyabongo said.
He added: “I hereby terminate all my personal social media accounts with immediate effect.”
Nyabongo, a former journalist, had maintained personal accounts on several social media platforms. He used the accounts to communicate directly with the public, particularly after controversy emerged over his selection as the next Omukama of Tooro.
The move means that official statements and other public communication from the king-designate will now be channelled through Akiiki.
Nyabongo is scheduled to be crowned at Karuziika Royal Palace in Fort Portal City on September 29, 2026. The coronation will include customary rites followed by his public enthronement as the new Omukama of Tooro.
He is set to succeed the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died in the United States on August 27, 2026. Oyo was buried at the Karambi Royal Tombs on September 12, 2026.