Joseph Tamale Mirundi: A Voice That Stirred Uganda's Political Landscape

The Ugandan media and political landscape has lost one of its most dynamic and controversial figures with the passing of Joseph Tamale Mirundi. Known for his sharp tongue and fearless political commentary, Mirundi died on August 13, 2024, at Kisubi Hospital from complications related to the lung. His death at the age of 60 marks the end of a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on Uganda's political discourse.

Education: Born in 1964 in Rakai District, Mirundi rose from modest beginnings to become a powerful voice in Ugandan media. He received his early education at Rubaga Senior Secondary School before moving on to Makerere University, where his interest in journalism and political analysis began to take shape.

Mirundi started his career as a part-time writer for the newspaper Munno, gradually building a reputation as a fearless commentator unafraid to tackle the most contentious issues of the day.

Presidential Press Secretary: His career took a significant leap when he was appointed as the Presidential Press Secretary under President Yoweri Museveni. In this role, which he held for nearly 13 years, Mirundi became known for his unwavering defense of the government and his unfiltered style of communication.

His time as press secretary was characterized by his blunt, often abrasive commentary, which earned him both praise and criticism.

Political analyst and media personality: After his dismissal from the role in 2015, Mirundi did not fade from the public eye. Instead, he transitioned into a full-time political analyst and media personality, appearing regularly on television programs such as "Sharp Talk with Tamale Mirundi" on STV and "One on One" on NBS Television.

His commentary, often laced with humor and biting criticism, attracted a large following and made him a polarizing figure in Ugandan society.

In 2022, Mirundi launched his own online newspaper, Kab News, where he continued to publish his views on politics and current events. This move solidified his role as an independent voice in Ugandan media, free from the constraints of traditional news outlets.

A Prolific Author: Tamale Mirundi was a prolific writer and commentator whose works delved deep into Ugandan politics and society. His extensive body of work offers invaluable insights into the country's complex history and contemporary issues.

Mirundi authored numerous books, including "Bafunda ne Serwajjokwota",  "Who Keeps the President in Power?", and "Uganda's Oil: Is It a Curse or Scramble?". These works explored the dynamics of power, wealth inequality, and the challenges and opportunities presented by Uganda's oil resources.

His pen also delved into the intersection of religion and politics with "What Divides the State and Religion," and the complex social issues of his time with titles such as "Killing a Medical Doctor to Save a Cobbler". Biographical works like "From Crown Prince to Commoner" and "The Making of Besigye" offered intimate portraits of key political figures.

Mirundi's "The History of the Media in Uganda: Case of a Snake in a Cooking Pot" is a significant contribution to media studies, providing a critical analysis of the industry's role in shaping public opinion. His later works, "Again at the Crossroad" and "Bobi Wine: Victory or Revolution?", engaged with contemporary political developments, reflecting his ongoing interest in the country's trajectory. These are just a few of the many books he wrote.

Through his writings, Tamale Mirundi left a lasting legacy as a thought-provoking and influential voice in Ugandan public discourse.

His legacy, also, continues through the countless interviews, speeches, and writings that captured his unfiltered view of Ugandan politics. As the nation reflects on his contributions, it is clear that Mirundi was more than just a commentator; he was a storyteller, a provocateur, and above all, a passionate advocate for his country.

Mirundi's life was not without personal and professional challenges. His outspoken nature led to several legal battles, including a defamation lawsuit filed by lawyer Male Mabirizi.

He also faced personal difficulties, including a highly publicized divorce from his first wife, Juliet Nassimbwa, in 2015, reportedly due to political differences. In 2019, Mirundi claimed that he had survived a poisoning attempt, an incident that only added to his mystique and public persona.

Despite these challenges, Mirundi remained a significant figure in Uganda's political landscape until his death. His commentary often highlighted issues such as governmental inefficiencies and corruption, and he was known for his ability to predict political outcomes with surprising accuracy.

Joseph Tamale Mirundi's passing leaves a void in Ugandan media and politics. His unique voice, characterized by its boldness and unfiltered nature, will be missed by many. As Uganda reflects on his contributions, it is clear that Mirundi's legacy will endure, serving as a reminder of the power of free speech and the impact that one individual can have on the political discourse of a nation.

His life and work stand as a testament to the importance of speaking truth to power, and his influence on Ugandan media will not be easily forgotten. 

What people say about Tamale Mirundi;

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. pic.twitter.com/zVAx1o3pXo— Muhoozi Kainerugaba (@mkainerugaba) August 14, 2024

I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of my friend, Joseph Tamale Mirundi. 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… pic.twitter.com/Jm10Ta36Gh
— Anita Annet Among (@AnitahAmong) August 14, 2024

@TamaleMirundiJ we are with you in prayers amidst the passing of Tamale Mirundi Senior, a staunch supporter of @mkainerugaba and a respected senior citizen of Uganda. Tamale Mirundi Senior dedicated his life to serving our nation with a heart full of love for his country. His… pic.twitter.com/P9KE8lTkl0
— SK Sylvia (@SKSylviaa) August 14, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Tuesday @Radio4UG,@Radio7Uganda & @radio8uganda panelist and Gen @mkainerugaba’s PLU Buganda spokesperson, Mzee Joseph Tamale Mirundi. He has left an indelible mark with his unwavering boldness and… pic.twitter.com/x6Ff9t2gxc
— Hon Dr Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi. (@BalaamAteenyiDr) August 14, 2024