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Ugandan king Oyo Nyimba, who became the world's youngest monarch at age three, dies aged 34

Tooro's Prime Minister Calvin Rwomiire Akiiki confirmed King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV leaves a son and heir, though the child's identity will remain secret until traditional customs are observed.
Tooro's Prime Minister Calvin Rwomiire Akiiki confirmed King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV leaves a son and heir, though the child's identity will remain secret until traditional customs are observed.

Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, ruler of western Uganda's Tooro Kingdom and a Guinness World Record holder for ascending the throne younger than any other reigning monarch, has died after secretly travelling to the United States to receive treatment for an undisclosed illness. He became king in 1995 at age three following his father's death, and went on to reign over a kingdom whose population exceeds two million for more than three decades. Deputy Parliament Speaker Thomas Tayebwa said the news was "very difficult to comprehend", with shocked Ugandans unaware of how seriously ill their king had been.

Tooro Prime Minister Calvin Rwomiire Akiiki confirmed an heir exists, saying 'the continuity of the Crown is assured'.

The prince's identity will be revealed 'at the appropriate time, in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom'.

Oyo captivated world leaders from childhood, including Muammar Gaddafi, who befriended the royal family for years.

MoreDaily Mail NewsWorld's youngest king dies aged 34: Ugandan traditional monarch passes away after 'critical illness'NY PostWorld’s youngest reigning monarch, Rukidi IV, dies at 34The New York TimesKing Oyo of Uganda’s Tooro Kingdom Dies at 34 - The New York Times
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