The former leader of opposition in Parliament who doubles as Kasese woman MP, Winnie Kiiza, has mourned the passing on of the Rwenzururu Queen Mother (Nyamukama), Her Royal Highness, Christine Biira Mukirania.
Mrs. Christine Biira Mukirania who died today morning was the mother of His Majesty, the Omusinga of Rwenzururu, Charles Wesley Mumbere and state minister of agriculture Godfrey Kibazaanga.
“It’s unfortunate that she has died at a time when our identity is still under threat, her counsel, efforts and motherly love for Rwenzori will surely be missed,” Ms Kiiza said, adding that the late’s legacy stands as a symbol of patience and persistence during the kingdom’s trying moments.
The Queen Mother died at Kilembe Hospital where she had been admitted. She was first admitted in the Intensive Care Unit of Case Hospital in Kampala where registered improvement and was discharged. She has been battling cancer since early this year.
“I send our deepest condolences to the Mukirania family and the Banyarwenzuru and Banyarwenzuru at this difficult time.” She said, “Biira has been instrumental in spearheading peace and reconciliation in the Rwenzori region since the 2016 clashes between the royal guards and the army,” the former LoP said.
Kiiza said that the kingdom celebrates the extraordinary life of the woman who devoted her life to guard, serve and jealously fight for the identity of the Bakonzo.
Kiiza was at the forefront when kingdom leaders and area MPs petitioned international criminal court calling for investigations and prosecution of army offices led by Maj Gen. Charles Elwelu who in 2016 commanded the force that attacked the King’s palace, leading to the death of over 100 people.
During the clashes, Rwenzururu king Charles Wesley Mumbere, his premier Thembo Kitsumbire and subjects were arrested and tried over allegations that they allied with the other forces from DR Congo, seeking for the creation of the Yiira Republic.
They were however released on bail and slummed with restrictions on not stepping in Kasese till their case is disposed of.
