President Museveni has hailed the late Joseph Tamale Mirundi for amplifying the message of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the media.
Mirundi, a prominent political analyst, author, and former Presidential Press Secretary, passed away on August 13, 2024.
“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 said.
The remarks were delivered by the Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilization and Deputy Spokesperson, Haji Faruk Kirunda, during a memorial mass at St. Gyaviira Catholic Parish, Bunamwaya.
President Museveni also thanked the late Mirundi’s family and relatives for organizing the commemorative event marking one year since his passing.
“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 his family even in his death,” he said.
Mirundi had become a household name, known for his outspoken nature, particularly during radio and television talk shows.
Haji Kirunda advised the children of the late Mirundi to remain united and form a SACCO to access government support as a family.
He officially launched the construction of Mirundi Media Plaza, a project estimated at Shs 1 billion, assuring the family of President Museveni’s backing. Additionally, he pledged 300 bags of cement on behalf of the Kirunda family.
“The President always recognized the late’s role; that’s why he also supported him when he wanted to set up a printery,” Kirunda said, further assuring the family that the President would officially visit and commiserate with them.
President Museveni also contributed Shs 30 million to support the memorial event.
Political commentator and close friend, Frank Gashumba, described Mirundi as a loyal friend despite occasional disagreements and called on his children to uphold his name. Gashumba also pledged 100 bags of cement towards the Mirundi Media Plaza project.
Mr. John Ssali Mirundi, elder brother of the late analyst, expressed gratitude to the President for his support during Mirundi’s illness and urged the children to stay united and preserve their father’s legacy. “As a family, we also managed to mend ties with the Buganda Kingdom, which had some issues with the late Mirundi,” he said.
On behalf of the late’s children, Ms. Teddy Nantongo thanked President Museveni for giving their father the opportunity to serve under the State House. She unveiled plans for the Mirundi Media Plaza in Mpambire, Masaka Road.
Fr. Francis Semuddu commended the family for organizing the memorial mass and described the late Mirundi as a man who left an indelible mark.
