Tooro Prince David Kijanangoma Araali has died at the Uganda Cancer Institute in Mulago after a long battle with throat cancer. Kijanangoma died on Tuesday while undergoing treatment, according to Tooro Kingdom spokesperson Vincent Mugume.

The prince had been ill for more than a year and was diagnosed with Stage Three throat cancer. His family had in April appealed to the public for financial support after his condition worsened. He had undergone treatment at Nakasero Hospital and the Uganda Cancer Institute, but his family said it needed about Shs700 million to facilitate specialised treatment in India.

Kijanangoma’s death comes at a particularly difficult time for the Tooro royal family, which is still mourning the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV, who was buried at the Karambi Royal Tombs on Saturday. He was an elder brother of Prince Edward Kijanangoma Amooti, who has since been named the new Omukama of Tooro by the Babiito royal clan.

Beyond the royal family, Kijanangoma was a familiar and sometimes controversial figure in Tooro affairs. In 2015, he openly challenged the leadership of the then King Oyo, his cousin, accusing him of failing to properly discharge his responsibilities. Kijanangoma went as far as declaring himself king, sparking a bitter dispute within the royal family.

He was a grandson of former Tooro King Omukama Sir George David Rukidi III. The Kijanangoma family has also experienced deep loss before. His elder brother, Prince Charles Happy Kijanangoma, was killed in Fort Portal in 1999.

Kijanangoma’s death now leaves the Tooro royal family mourning yet another member at a time of profound change for the kingdom. Details of his burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the family and Tooro Kingdom authorities.