By: Miracle Orumor

The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has stepped up preparations for the upcoming local government elections, unveiling its mayoral candidates and activating a dedicated election war room.

The move signals the party’s determination to mount a strong and coordinated campaign as political parties begin positioning themselves for control of key municipalities.

The MK Party said its selected candidates will spearhead its campaign at the local level, while the newly established war room will coordinate election strategies, monitor campaign activities and mobilise support across targeted areas.

Party leaders expressed confidence that the new campaign structure and mayoral candidates would strengthen the party’s presence and improve its chances at the polls.

With the local government elections approaching, the latest development places the MK Party firmly in campaign mode as it seeks to expand its political influence and challenge rival parties for control at the grassroots level.

By Miracle Orumor

The Kingdom of Tooro in western Uganda has been thrown into mourning following the death of its monarch, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, at the age of 34. 🇺🇬👑

King Oyo became king in 1995 at just three years old, following the death of his father, making him the world’s youngest reigning monarch, according to Guinness World Records.

He was officially crowned when he turned 18 in 2010.

The cause of his death has not been officially disclosed. However, Ugandan media reports said the young king had been critically ill and was receiving treatment in the United States.

Despite Uganda being governed by an elected president and parliament, the country maintains several traditional kingdoms that continue to hold strong cultural influence.

King Oyo was the 13th monarch of the Tooro Kingdom, which was established in the early 19th century. He was regarded as a respected leader who championed youth empowerment, education, environmental conservation and HIV/AIDS awareness.

His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes across Uganda.

💔 The Tooro Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, described the monarch’s death as an “immeasurable loss” and called on the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful.

The Buganda Kingdom and Rwenzururu Kingdom have also expressed condolences to the people of Tooro.

⚽ Uganda’s football governing body has meanwhile announced a moment of silence before all football matches until September 4 in honour of King Oyo’s legacy and contribution to the sport.

Although King Oyo was not officially married, the Tooro Kingdom says the continuity of the Crown is assured, with a prince set to succeed him. The identity of the heir will reportedly be revealed according to Tooro traditions and customs.

👑 From becoming king at just 3 years old to leaving the throne at 34, King Oyo’s extraordinary life has come to an end.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

By Miracle Orumor

South African motorists are bracing for another painful increase in fuel prices next week, with diesel prices expected to rise by nearly R3 per litre.

The latest fuel price data indicates that diesel could increase by between R2.77 and R2.98 per litre, while petrol prices are also projected to rise by about R1 per litre.

The expected increase is largely linked to rising international oil prices and continued volatility in global energy markets.

The new prices are expected to take effect in early September, although the final adjustments will be confirmed by South Africa’s Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.

For motorists and businesses heavily dependent on diesel, the increase could put further pressure on transportation and operating costs.