THE UNFORGETTABLE TAMALE Mirundi.

A COMMUNICATOR WHO TRANSCENDED GATEKEEPERS’ STRIKE AND NAVIGATED CHANGING MEDIA TRENDS

By, KATONGOLE ARNOLD ANDERSON

Championing justice for all demands unwavering courage to challenge authority and stand up for the marginalized majority, oppressed by the powerful few. Tamale Joseph Mirundi exemplified this courage, undeterred by mockery, threats, or public ridicule. He fearlessly confronted wrongdoers with sharp analysis and unwavering determination.

 

Born to Yowana and Molly Mirundi in Kalisizo, Tamale deeply valued his roots and never missed an opportunity to honor his parents when speaking publicly. His profound love for family was always evident, and he staunchly defended them as any attack on his family was considered a direct attack on himself, which he would not tolerate. While he could display intense passion, underneath it all, he possessed a very soft heart.

 

Tamale Mirundi attended Kitovu,Rubaga SS, and Makerere University, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. His journey in the media industry began in late 70s when his brother, John Ssali, brought him to Kampala. Starting as a newspaper vendor, he later became a prolific writer for the renowned Munno newspaper. In 1981, he played a pivotal role in founding two newspapers, Lipoota zonna zaagwa and The Voice , solidifying his contributions to print media. Transitioning to radio, he gained recognition for his role in the political show Mambo Bado aired on CBS Radio. His influence in the media industry peaked when he was appointed as the Presidential Advisor on Media Matters, a position he held until 2015 when he parted ways with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, citing relocation as the primary reason for his departure.

 

Mirundi’s career spanned print, radio, television, and more recently, social media platforms. His frequent literary references and prophetic writings in his books, including notable works such as Banyampi, Who Keeps the President in Power, Killing a Medical Doctor to Save a Cobbler among others sparked diverse reactions from the public upon their release.

 

Throughout his life, Mirundi fearlessly criticized various figures, including religious leaders, government officials, President Museveni, media owners and editors, judicial officers, parliamentarians, and more, irrespective of their prior associations with him. Despite his confrontational nature, Mirundi, a devoted Catholic, always demonstrated unwavering respect for the Kabaka, even in his contentious exchanges with Buganda officials.

 

It’s worth noting that during the celebration of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s 48th birthday, efforts were made to reconcile Mirundi with some of his former adversaries, including veteran journalist Andrew Mwenda and Minister for Agriculture Frank Tumwebaze. Mirundi often portrayed himself as self-made and admired Ben Kiwanuka, the founding father of the Democratic Party (DP), as his role model due to Kiwanuka’s rise from obscurity to prominence.

 

Describing Tamale Mirundi’s legacy is an endless task. His name and work are indelible and will endure through generations. Whether in agreement or disagreement, they embody wisdom and testify to continuity.

 

Upon his final journey, ending on August 18, 2024, the loss of Uncle Tamale has deeply affected us. His wisdom, realism, and powerful communication resonated deeply with students of sociology, journalism, literature, and political science. Farewell, Tamale Joseph Mirundi. You will be deeply missed.”

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