By Joselyn Nakitto and Amos Ssemuwemba
Despite his hostile statements when he was still alive, St. Gyaviira Catholic Church this morning recieved the body of the late Joseph Tamale Mirundi and held a Requiem Mass in his honor, celebrated by Fr. Francis Ssemudu.
Former Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Sekandi, was among the signatories who attended the mass. Others included; The Inspector General of Government (IGG) Betty Olive Namisango Kamya, Minister for Kampala City and Metropolitan Area Minsa Kabanda and several other artists.
His close friend Sir Simon Muyanga Lutaaya, the Chief Executive Officer, SML News UG and show host Inside Out Program which airs on his You Tube Channel also attended.
In a speech delivered by his brother who’s also the family heir John Ssali Sembuya on behalf of the family, he expressed gratitude to the church for honoring his brother by holding a Requiem Mass in his memory despite his hostile statements when he was still alive.
“We are very grateful and humbled for this gesture. We had fears that we wouldn’t be accepted to have the mass here because of the hostile statements he made before his death. I acknowledge that some of his statements were inappropriate and shouldn’t be taken seriously” Ssali said.
Ssali also announced that the family had intentions to seek forgiveness from Mengo for his late brother’s attacks.
“Yesterday when I last checked in the condolence book, I had not seen a message from Mengo. That means they might still be upset but am ready to meet with the Katikiro and speak with him on behalf of the family”.
Mirundi, had a complex relationship with Mengo.
Ssali commended his late brother for the unconditional support, he has always given to the family.
“Tamale’s death has left a big gap in us as a family. He has been a strong pillar for us. Out spoken as he was with sharp commentaries, he was very responsible and kind hearted”.
Government also commended the late for his significant contributions to the country, in a speech delivered by the Minister for Kampala City and Metropolitan Area Minsa Kabanda.
“Tamale Mirundi had become a household name in Uganda. He spoke his mind and touched the lives of many. Ugandans have learnt alot of history about the country through him. He loved his party NRM and the president until his death. We pay our tribute to this kind and resourceful Ugandan who will be remembered for many decades to come in both journalism and politics. He has left his thoughts in the books he wrote and his writtings will help current and future generations”. Kabanda said.
The Inspector General of Government, Betty Olive Namisango Kamya commended Tamale for his contribution to the fight against corruption.
“Tamale Mirundi has been very crucial in the fight against corruption through his incisive speech. He has left an impact on all generations, even those older than him. He used his talent to motivate them one way or the other”. Kamya said.
The Executive Director Uganda Communication Commission, Hon. Nyombi Tembo hailed Tamale for his creativity and contribution to the media industry.
“Mirundi was a content creator whose work is in circulation and will be referenced to for a long time. Some will understand it, others will not”. Tembo noted.
The football fraternity will also miss his presence.
” He has been a great supporter of sports. Based on his advise, we managed to re-organise the federation”. Lawrence Mulindwa, the President Federation of Uganda Football Association said.
Sabagabo area Member of Parliament David Serukenya also hailed the late.
“Even if you were his friend or party colleague, he would rebuke you and call you back to order whenever there was a mistake”. Serukenya said.
Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Muhoozo Kainerugaba applauded Tamale for his patriotism.
” We have been friends and colleagues for over 20 years. He was a bold and fearless person who always faught for the truth. Uganda has lost a true patriot who loved his country”. Muhoozi noted.
Mirundi died yesterday at Kisuubi Hospital.
He will be laid to rest at his ancestral home on Sunday at Kalagala- Kalisiizo, Rakai District according to the burial program.
