Family declines to fulfill Tamale Mirundi’s wish to be buried standing

The family of the late Joseph Tamale Mirundi, veteran journalist and former presidential press secretary, has chosen not to honor his unusual wish to be buried standing. This decision was made public by Mirundi’s brother, Mr. Richard Lwasa Mpijja, during a somber announcement on Sunday morning. Despite Mirundi’s colorful personality and penchant for making outlandish statements, the family opted to follow traditional Ganda customs.

“Mirundi was known for his humor and whimsical nature. He made many requests, often in jest, and while we have respected most of them, such as holding vigils at both of his Kampala homes, we cannot go against tradition. Burying him standing up is simply not in line with our cultural practices,” said Mr. Lwasa.

Joseph Tamale Mirundi passed away last Tuesday at the age of 60 after suffering from liver and lung complications. His death marked the end of a notable career in Uganda’s media and political landscape, where he often stood out as a fiery commentator with an unapologetically sharp tongue. Mirundi served as the presidential press secretary for years before transitioning into a role as a presidential advisor. His often polarizing views and biting critiques earned him both admirers and detractors throughout his career.

Despite any past controversies, Mr. Lwasa expressed the family’s gratitude to President Museveni for recognizing Mirundi’s abilities and trusting him with significant roles in government. “Whatever misunderstandings he may have had with other officials are inconsequential now. We are proud of the roles he played and appreciate the honor bestowed upon him by the President,” Lwasa remarked.

However, the decision to disregard Mirundi’s burial request has left some mourners at his ancestral home in Matale-Kalagala feeling uneasy. Residents of the village expressed mixed reactions, with some feeling that Mirundi’s last wishes should have been respected. “What if he refuses to be buried?” wondered Stanley Yiga, a local resident, in jest. “We may end up needing a deeper grave,” he added, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Others, such as Benon Yiga, a former friend of Mirundi, focused on celebrating his legacy. Yiga reminisced about Mirundi’s contributions to the community, particularly his efforts to help the youth of Kyotera (formerly part of Rakai District) secure employment. “Many civil servants in Kyotera and Rakai owe their positions to him. He was a man who looked out for others, and we are proud of what he accomplished,” Yiga said.

Mirundi’s body was transported from his home in Kyengera, a Kampala suburb, to his ancestral village on Saturday, accompanied by a convoy of vehicles, media vans, and motorcycles. Onlookers lined the Kampala-Masaka highway to catch a glimpse of the procession, honoring the man who was both loved and loathed for his outspoken views.

As the family prepared for the final rites, heightened security marked the event, ensuring that all proceedings went smoothly. Mirundi, known for his unwavering opinions and sharp commentary, left behind a legacy that will continue to stir debate, even in his death.