Tamale Mirundi Laid to Rest as Catholic Church Shuns Burial

A sombre atmosphere enveloped Matala-Kalagala Village on Sunday afternoon as hundreds gathered to bid farewell to Joseph Tamale Mirundi, a veteran journalist and former deputy presidential press secretary. Mirundi, 60, succumbed to liver and lung complications on Tuesday at Kisubi Hospital.

The final send-off lacked formal religious rites, with local Catholic priests declining to officiate at the burial. This stood in contrast to the special mass that had been conducted earlier in the week at St. Gyaviira Catholic Parish in Bunamwaya, Kampala. The ceremony in Matala-Kalagala was instead dominated by heartfelt speeches from family members, friends, and political figures.

In a speech delivered by Vice President Jessica Alupo, President Yoweri Museveni hailed Mirundi as a fearless commentator on national and international affairs. He praised Mirundi’s dedication to exposing corruption and advocating for fairness and equality in Uganda.

“Joseph Tamale Mirundi was a household name because of his brave and truthful commentary on current affairs. He was a self-styled and independent-minded public intellectual who attracted a large following on both social media and traditional platforms,” Museveni’s statement read.

The president also contributed Shs10 million to assist the family with funeral expenses.

Despite Mirundi’s high profile, his burial was marked by the absence of traditional Catholic prayers, as the local clergy chose not to participate. In their stead, Pastor William Katwama, representing Pastor Aloysius Bugingo of House of Prayer Ministries, offered the final prayer as the casket was lowered into the ground at 2:20 p.m.

Family and friends described Mirundi as a gentle, caring individual who always took the time to listen to others’ concerns and offer help where he could. Many who gathered spoke of his strong character, his dedication to the betterment of Uganda, and his tireless efforts to stand up for what he believed was right.

“He was passionate about issues of governance, service delivery, and justice. His outspokenness inspired many, even if his style was controversial,” remarked one mourner.