Joseph Tamale Mirundi, a revered journalist, prolific author, and unyielding political analyst, passed on, 13, August, 2024 at the age of 59. His death creates a void with in the Ugandan media, where his sharp and fearless commentary shaped public discourse for decades.
Born in 1964 in the Rakai District of Uganda, Joseph Tamale Mirundi rose from humble beginnings to become a towering figure in the nation’s media landscape, ”I am a Volocan, I erupt when I want, on his own fearless attitude he stated, ”I dont fear anyone, I fear only God.” those were some his vocal statements he made.
His journey began at Rubaga Senior Secondary School and later at Makerere University, where he honed his skills before embarking on a career in journalism. Starting as a part-time writer for Munno newspaper, Mirundi’s passion for truth and fearless expression soon earned him a reputation that transcended the confines of traditional media.
Mirundi’s career took a significant turn when he was appointed as the presidential press secretary and media advisor, roles that placed him at the center of Uganda’s political theater. As a staunch member of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), he wielded considerable influence, navigating the complex intersections of media and politics with a distinctive, no-nonsense style.
Television audiences across Uganda became familiar with Mirundi’s fiery rhetoric on shows like “Sharp Talk” on STV Uganda, “One on One” on NBS Television, and “Embuga” on STV Uganda. His candid opinions, often laced with controversy, kept viewers engaged and politicians on their toes. Despite the backlash, including a suspension from the “One on One” show in 2017 for using abusive language and a defamation lawsuit by lawyer Mabirizi, Mirundi remained unapologetic, cementing his place as a voice unafraid to speak truth to power.
In 2022, he founded Kab News, an online newspaper that became his latest platform for delivering hard-hitting news and analysis. This venture further solidified his legacy as a pioneer in Ugandan media, unrestrained by conventional boundaries.
Mirundi’s personal life was as tumultuous as his career. In 2015, political differences led his first wife, Juliet Nassimbwa, to seek a divorce. He also made headlines in 2019 when he alleged he had been poisoned, a claim that only added to the aura of intrigue surrounding his life.
Despite the challenges he faced, Mirundi’s contributions to journalism were recognized at the highest levels. President Yoweri Museveni acknowledged his work with a personal reward—a new car, symbolizing the respect he commanded in political circles.
Mirundi was not just a commentator but a prophet of sorts, often predicting political shifts with uncanny accuracy. He foresaw the downfall of Eric Sakwa and predicted the rise of the People Power, Our Power movement under Bobi Wine in the 2021 elections, a prediction that proved prescient.
As the nation mourns his passing, Mirundi leaves behind a legacy of fearless journalism and political analysis. He is survived by his parents, Molly Namatovu and Yowana Mirundi, who, like the rest of Uganda, must now come to terms with the void left by their son’s departure.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course, but the shockwaves of his death have already reverberated through Ugandan media and political circles. Tributes continue to pour in, honoring a man whose voice, though silenced, will resonate in the annals of Ugandan history for years to come.
