The presidential counselor on media concerns and outspoken political analyst Joseph Tamale Mirundi passed away, and tributes to him are still pouring in.
At the age of 59, Tamale, a seasoned writer, political analyst, and journalist, passed in hospital last evening. According to family sources, Tamale was pronounced dead on Tuesday at around 11:40 p.m. in Kisubi hospital in Kampala.
They state that he passed away following a battle with a lung ailment that led to his hospitalization for up to one month.
At the time of his demise, he was serving with the Patriotic League Uganda, (PLU) movement as the Buganda spokesperson, alongside participating in several talk shows on radio and Tv.
He has been on a number of political talk shows on television, such as STV Uganda’s “Embuga,” NBS Television’s “One on One,” and STV Uganda’s “Sharp Talk.”
He was a frequent panelist on a Baba TV morning talk show at the time of his passing.
Several talk show hosts, members of the public, politicians, and leaders have expressed regret on social media.
The Chief of Defence Forces, (CDF) of the UPDF army, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, also the chairman for (PLU), expressed his tremendous sadness after learning of the demise of Mirundi in his homage.
He stated that for more than 20 years, the two worked as coworkers and friends. He describes him as a brave man who stood up for the truth.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend and brother Tamale Mirundi. We were friends and colleagues for over 20 years. He was a bold and fearless person who always fought for the truth. Uganda has lost a patriot who loved his country. May his soul rest in peace.” he said
Similarly, the Speaker of Parliament in her tribute, declared that Mirundi made important contributions to his nation as a journalist, government worker, and social-political analyst, and that his passing leaves a huge vacuum.
“As a journalist, civil servant, and social-political commentator, Mirundi made significant contributions to his country, and his loss leaves a great void. My sympathies go out to counsel John Mirundi, the entire family, his friends, and relatives. May his soul rest in peace.” she wrote on her official X platform
MP Joseph Ssewungu of Kalungu West, describes Mirundi as a person who dared to speak freely and without fear.
“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.” he said
State Minister for Youth Balaam Ateenyi Barugahara also stated that Mirundi was a man of unflinching assertiveness and distinctive presence, as he has created an enduring impression.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved PLU Buganda spokesperson, Mzee Joseph Tamale Mirundi. He 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.” he said
In its homage, Kisubi hospital, where the deceased was admitted for over a month, condoled with the family.
“All his life, he chose us as the only Hospital he trusted to manage his health needs. He was more than just a patient to us. He was part of our community. He fought hard. We witnessed it. We shall dearly miss him. Rest well, Tamale Mirundi, our dear Friend” they stated
Born in the Rakai District of Uganda in 1964, he completed his education at Rubaga Senior Secondary School before earning his degree from Makerere University.
Before turning to journalism as a vocation, Mirundi worked as a part-time writer for the newspaper Munno. Plans for the funeral will be revealed when they are ready.