BUNAMWAYA | Eye Media | August 14, 2025 – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has paid glowing tribute to the late Joseph Tamale Mirundi, praising him as a fearless and strategic communicator who tirelessly amplified the message of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the media.
Mirundi, a renowned political analyst, author, and former Presidential Press Secretary, passed away on 13th August 2024.
In a message delivered by Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilization and Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Haji Faruk Kirunda, the President described Mirundi as “a good cadre and a strategic communicator,” urging his children and grandchildren to carry on his good works.
“The NRM lost a good cadre and a strategic communicator. I urge his children and grandchildren to carry on his good works,” Museveni said.
The remarks were made during a memorial mass held at St. Gyaviira Catholic Parish, Bunamwaya, marking one year since Mirundi’s passing. The President thanked the family for organising the event, saying it was a clear sign of their commitment to preserving his legacy.
“This is an indication of your commitment to ensuring that the late Mirundi’s legacy and memory are preserved. I also want to thank the Church for leading the memorial service, and all friends and former colleagues who have remained close to the family even in his death,” he added.
Museveni noted that by the time of his death, Mirundi had become a household name, widely known for his outspoken nature, especially on radio and television talk shows.
Honouring His Legacy
During the memorial, Haji Kirunda urged the late’s children to remain united and even form a SACCO so the government could support them as a family. He officially launched the construction of Mirundi Media Plaza, a Shs 1 billion project, assuring them of the President’s support to see it completed.
Additionally, Kirunda pledged 300 bags of cement on behalf of the Kirunda family. He recalled how the President had previously supported Mirundi when he wanted to set up a printery, emphasising that Museveni always valued his contribution to the NRM cause.
The President also contributed Shs 30 million to help the family organise the memorial.
Friends and Family Pay Tribute
Political commentator and close friend, Mr. Frank Gashumba, described Mirundi as a loyal friend, even though they sometimes disagreed on principle. He called on the children to remain disciplined and safeguard their father’s name, pledging 100 bags of cement towards the Media Plaza project.
The late’s elder brother, Mr. John Ssali Mirundi, thanked President Museveni for the support he extended to Mirundi during his illness and after his passing. He also revealed that the family had reconciled with the Buganda Kingdom, mending ties that had previously been strained.
On behalf of the children, Ms. Teddy Nantongo expressed gratitude to President Museveni for giving her father the opportunity to serve under State House. She also unveiled plans to build Mirundi Media Plaza in Mpambire, along Masaka Road.
Church Commendation
Fr. Francis Semuddu hailed the late Mirundi as “a great man who left an indelible mark” on Uganda’s political and media landscape, and commended the family for organising the memorial service in his honour.
