Bakonzo people warmly welcome back Mumbere

Crowds began to amass as early as 8 a.m., but security measures limited their access to the pitch, forcing them to queue along the roadway, excitedly awaiting the arrival of their king.

Omusinga Mumbere had been missing from his kingdom of Rwenzururu since November 2016, when he was arrested alongside his royal guards during a security raid on his palace in Kasese town. His faithful countrymen had been waiting for his return for a long time.

Residents of Rwenzururu were observed converging on Kasese Airfield as the clock approached 8 a.m.

The mood was electric, with passionate men playing traditional drums and other musical instruments, filling the air with beats that echoed their joy.

The town has come alive with a plethora of cultural performances, with traditional music resonating alongside cheerful voices from both the elderly and the youth.

Vendors have also taken advantage of the festival by selling Omusinga Mumbere-themed things such as fliers, t-shirts, and photo frames.

Some subjects have chosen to obtain great seats and a good vantage point at the golf course along Kilembe Road in Kasese town, where the King is set to address his people shortly after landing in Kasese.

Early this year, the Government dropped charges against Mumbere.

The Government, however, chose to solely bring charges against Mashereka Kamada and Prime Minister Thembo Kasubire of the Rwenzururu Kingdom.

Mumbere and his co-accused were accused of terrorism, murder, and attempted murder, among other offences.