Uganda’s renowned and controversial media personality, Joseph Tamale Mirundi, has passed away at the age of 59. The outspoken senior journalist was pronounced dead late on the night of Tuesday, August 13, 2024, around midnight.
His death has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s media and political circles, with many paying tribute to his significant contributions to journalism and political analysis. The country mourns the loss of this prominent public figure known for his bold and often contentious commentary on politics, economics, and social issues.
Mirundi, who served as a presidential press secretary for over thirteen years, was a fearless commentator until the very end. He was known for his uncompromising stance and was said to have spent his final moments criticizing certain government officials who, he believed, had hindered his career.
Despite these challenges, Mirundi’s work in the media was recognized by President Yoweri Museveni, who awarded him a new car in appreciation of his service during his tenure at the State House.
Born in Rakai District, Uganda, in 1964 to Molly Namatovu and Yowana Mirundi, the communication specialist was a familiar face on Ugandan television.
He appeared on various political talk shows, including “Sharp Talk” on STV Uganda, “Gangamuka Extra” on Baba TV, and “Embuga” on STV Uganda. He was also a regular on “One on One” on NBS Television, though he was suspended from the show in 2017 for using abusive language against statesmen and other individuals. His outspoken nature also led to a defamation lawsuit brought against him by lawyer Mabirizi.
In 2019, Mirundi alleged that he had been poisoned and claimed to know the individuals responsible, though he never disclosed their identities. His personal life was also marked by political tension, as evidenced by his first wife, Juliet Nassimbwa, seeking a divorce in 2015 due to political differences.
Mirundi attended Rubaga Senior Secondary School and later graduated from Makerere University with a degree in Journalism and Communication.
He went on to earn a Master’s degree in Communication and began his career as a part-time writer for the *Munno* newspaper before becoming a professional journalist.
During his time as a media advisor at the State House, Mirundi was affiliated with the National Resistance Movement (NRM). Interestingly, his son, Tamale Mirundi Junior, is a staunch rival of President Museveni, aligning himself with the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP).
In 2022, Mirundi founded an online newspaper, *Kab News*, where he continued to publish news and information. Throughout his career, he remained known for his controversial statements and fearless commentary.
Mirundi was one of the few who foresaw the rise of Bobi Wine’s People Power movement, which eventually evolved into the NUP, a political party that stirred the nation during the 2021 general elections.
