Tamale Mirundi Final Death Wish Revealed

Veteran political analyst and former Presidential Press Secretary, Joseph Tamale Mirundi, who passed away last night, left behind a unique and deeply personal request for his burial. Known for his outspoken nature and unconventional views, Mirundi’s final wish was no different. He wanted his life to be celebrated across his three marital residences—in Zana, Kabalagala, and Kyengera—with a two-day vigil at each location.

For a man whose life was marked by controversy and strong opinions, it is perhaps fitting that his final send-off would be anything but ordinary. Mirundi’s wish for these vigils was clear: they should not be somber or filled with grief. Instead, he wanted them to be joyous celebrations, gatherings where friends, family, and well-wishers could come together, share stories, and honor his legacy in the way he lived—boldly and unapologetically.

Central to these vigils was the slaughter of a cow at each residence, a gesture that Mirundi intended as a feast for those attending. It was his way of ensuring that the people who came to remember him would do so with full hearts and stomachs, surrounded by the warmth of community and the shared joy of a meal. This final act of generosity reflects Mirundi’s desire to leave behind a memory of abundance and togetherness, rather than sorrow.

Mirundi envisioned these vigils as public events, extending beyond the confines of his homes and into the streets and markets. He wanted his life to be celebrated loudly and visibly, a reflection of the way he had lived—never one to shy away from the spotlight, always eager to engage with the public. His final wish was that these gatherings would be filled with life, laughter, and the stories that defined his larger-than-life persona.

The news of Tamale Mirundi’s passing came after a challenging period of illness. Last month, he was rushed to Kisubi Hospital, where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), battling a series of health complications. Doctors had been working tirelessly to manage his condition, even having to drain water from his lungs over the past few weeks. Despite their efforts, Mirundi succumbed to his ailments, leaving behind a legacy as one of Uganda’s most colorful and controversial figures.

As the nation prepares to honor his final wishes, there is no doubt that Tamale Mirundi’s life will be remembered just as he wanted—through celebration, community, and a spirit that refuses to be subdued. The vigils at his three marital homes will be a testament to the man he was: unyielding, generous, and always at the center of attention.