By Spy Uganda
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has paid glowing tribute to the late Joseph Tamale Mirundi, describing him as a “good cadre and strategic communicator” whose outspoken style helped amplify the National Resistance Movement’s message in the media.
Mirundi, a veteran political analyst, author, and former Presidential Press Secretary, died on August 13, 2024. The President’s remarks were delivered today by Haji Faruk Kirunda, the Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilization and Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, during a memorial mass held at St. Gyaviira Catholic Parish, Bunamwaya, to mark one year since his passing.
“The NRM lost a good cadre and a strategic communicator; and I urge his children and grandchildren to carry on his good works,” President Museveni’s message read.
“This memorial is proof of your commitment to ensuring that the late Mirundi’s legacy and memory are preserved. I also thank the Church, his friends, and former colleagues who have remained close to his family, even in his death.”
President Museveni praised Mirundi’s fearlessness and candor, noting that his appearances on radio and television made him a household name across the country.
“By the time he died, the late Tamale had become a household name. He was hailed for his outspoken nature,” the President said.
Haji Kirunda, who represented the President at the event, advised the family to stay united and even establish a Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) so that government could support them in sustaining their late father’s legacy.
He also officially launched the construction of Mirundi Media Plaza, a Shs 1 billion project in Mpambire along Masaka Road, assuring the family of President Museveni’s support to see it completed. Kirunda pledged 300 bags of cement on behalf of his family, noting that “H.E the President always recognized the late’s role — that’s why he supported him when he wanted to set up a printery.”
The President also contributed Shs 30 million to the family to help organize the memorial.
Political commentator Frank Gashumba, a long-time friend of the late Mirundi, described him as a principled ally despite occasional disagreements. He pledged 100 bags of cement towards the Media Plaza and urged the children to be disciplined and protect their father’s name.
The elder brother of the deceased, Mr. John Ssali Mirundi, thanked the President for his unwavering support during Mirundi’s illness and called for unity among family members. He also revealed that the family had reconciled with the Buganda Kingdom, ending longstanding misunderstandings.
Speaking on behalf of the children, Ms. Teddy Nantongo thanked President Museveni for giving her father the opportunity to serve under State House and reiterated the family’s commitment to completing Mirundi Media Plaza as a lasting tribute.
In his sermon, Fr. Francis Semuddu hailed the late Mirundi as a man who left “an indelible mark” in Uganda’s political and media landscape. He commended the family for organizing the memorial and encouraged them to preserve his legacy through unity and constructive work.
The memorial drew family members, political leaders, friends, and former colleagues — all united in remembering a man whose voice, wit, and boldness shaped political discourse in Uganda for decades.
