Veteran journalist and political commentator , Joseph Tamale Mirundi (60) has been buried at his ancestral home in Matale village, Kalagala in Kalisizo. The funeral was presided over by Vice Preident Jesca Alupo who represented President Yoweri Museveni.
Tamale Mirundi died on August 13, at Kisubi Hospital in Kampala, succumbing to a respiratory complications. He was laid to rest next to his father, Yowana Mirundi, at his family graveyard.
Tamale Mirundi’s children
Tamale Mirundi ‘s elder brother Mr. Richard Lwasa Mpijja, told mourners that much as they had fulfilled most of the deceased wishes , they could not bury him while “standing” cause it was not allowed in law and it was against the Buganda kingdom norms , values and tradition.
He also warned the NRM government about the increasing violent radicalism among the youth noting that if solutions are not found quickly the situation would go out of hand . He advised that instead of giving handouts to poor , angry hungry youth who are the majority of the population government should instead use those recourses to build more factories and industries to offer employment to Uganda to earn sustainable incomes .
Mr. Lwasa, reflecting on Mirundi’s life, noted the deceased’s penchant for humor and whimsical statements. “While we have honored many of his requests, including holding vigils at his homes in Kampala, we cannot forsake our cultural practices. Burying him standing would be a betrayal of our culture and shameful ,” Lwasa stated.
Tamale’s children led by the first born requested to meet President Museveni to thank him for all the support he has extended to the family including but not limited to employing their late father as Deputy Press Secretary at State House .
“We are profoundly appreciative of the assistance provided and do not take it for granted,” said John Tamale Mirundi, the deceased’s son. With over 40 children and dependents, the family has noted the President’s consistent kindness and has requested a meeting with him.
