The Omusinga of Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu, Charles Wesley Mumbere, has strongly condemned the recent wave of attacks in the Rwenzori sub-region and distanced his cultural institution from the violent acts.

Over the weekend, armed assailants launched coordinated attacks on police stations and military detachments in Kasese, Bundibugyo, and Fort Portal, leaving at least 19 people dead and several others injured. Security agencies have since arrested more than 40 suspects linked to the incidents.

In a statement issued through the kingdom’s prime minister, Kule Benson Biritazale, Mumbere dismissed social media reports linking the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu to the attackers, describing such claims as false and misleading.

The Omusinga warned that spreading unverified information only fuels fear and instability in the Rwenzori region, diverting focus from finding those truly responsible for the violence.

“The kingdom has always stood for peace, reconciliation, and unity in diversity,” Mumbere said, adding that the institution remains committed to promoting social transformation, mindset change, and development in the region.

He also expressed sympathy to families affected by the attacks and commended the government and security forces for their swift action in restoring calm. Mumbere urged residents to remain vigilant, united, and cooperative with authorities as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, school heads in Kabarole and Fort Portal have appealed to the government to deploy security personnel at education institutions to safeguard learners and teachers. The call was made during an emergency meeting held at the Kabarole District Headquarters following the weekend attacks.