Omusinga Mumbere flown to Turkey for treatment

The Omusinga of Rwenzururu, Charles Wesley Mumbere, has travelled to Turkey to undergo a comprehensive medical review.

The trip, reportedly facilitated by President Yoweri Museveni, followed weeks of speculation on the health of the monarch.

Mumbere spoke to reporters at Entebbe International Airport before his departure, where he expressed gratitude to the President and his administration.

“I haven’t been feeling very well, I am here at Entebbe Airport and I am travelling to Turkey for a medical review,” Omusinga confirmed. 

“I am grateful to H.E. President Yoweri Museveni and his government for allowing me to go abroad for further medical review.”

He also addressed viral speculation regarding his health, particularly claims circulating on social media that suggested his condition was dire. 

The king sought to reassure his subjects that despite feeling pain, he was not incapacitated. 

"I wish also to pass a message to the kingdom subjects that although I am going for a medical review, I am not all that bad as it has been claimed on TikTok that I am moving in a stretcher. I am on my feet, I talk and eat well, except for some pain inside,” he clarified.

The Omusinga's medical journey has necessitated a change in the kingdom’s calendar. 

His annual coronation celebration, which was scheduled for 19th October, and his birthday run, originally slated for 14th November, will now be combined. 

All associated activities are scheduled to take place on 14th November to accommodate the King’s absence and subsequent return.