Tributes pour in after Tamale Mirundi death

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Several tributes are being paid to former presidential press secretary Joseph Tamale Mirundi, who died of lung-related complications on Tuesday evening, August 13, 2024.

Mirundi, who was an intricate figure in Ugandan society and was believed to have been in his 60s, breathed his last at Kisubi Hospital on Entebbe Road.

Described by many as a motor-mouthed socio-political commentator, Mirundi was as controversial as he was charismatic, and his impact on political discourse, analysts say, will be felt for years to come.

He was born as the ninth child to Molly and the late Tamale Mirundi in Matale village, Rakai district.

At the time of his death, he was the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) spokesperson for Buganda region.

Mirundi once described himself in a media interview as a tough man who everyone feared.

“I am a man who can quarrel and fight. I am also a self-made man who fought my way from absolute poverty into the privileged class. I am very unique, I started talking at six months and my father wanted to throw me away but my mother refused,” he said.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Among took to X, formerly Twitter, to say she was deeply saddened to hear about the passing on of her friend, Mirundi.

“As a journalist, civil servant and social-political commentator, Mirundi made significant contributions to his country, and his loss leaves a great void,” she posted.

“My sympathies go out to counsel John Mirundi, the entire family, his friends, and relatives. May his soul rest in peace,” the Speaker, who is also the Bukedea Woman MP, added.

Balaam Barugahara, the state minister for children and youth affairs, who also doubles as the PLU’s vice-chairperson for western region, said Mirundi has left “an indelible mark with his unwavering boldness and unforgettable presence”.

“Mzee Tamale’s legacy will live on in our hearts, and his contributions to our shows will forever be cherished,” the minister said. 

Kalungu West MP Joseph Ssewungu also posted on X saying: My heart is heavy with grief as I mourn the loss of a friend Tamale Mirundi who has been uncensored and bold enough to speak. His passing away leaves an indelible mark that cannot be erased and he will forever be remembered. "Auf wiedersehen Tamale Mirundi".

Microfinance state minister Haruna Kasolo also mourned Mirundi saying 'his voice and guidance have left an indelible mark on our nation's media landscape'.

"This loss is profound, not just for those who knew him personally but for all who respected his dedication and service to the country. May his legacy continue to inspire, and may his family find comfort in the impact he made during his lifetime. Rest in peace," Kasolo posted on X.

Artiste Eddy Kenzo has also mourned saying the passing on of Mirundi is sad.