Gashumba Eulogizes Tamale Mirundi as Irreplaceable

Social commentator Frank Gashumba has described deceased former Presidential Press Secretary Tamale Mirundi as irreplaceable.

Frank Gashumba expressed his praise as he eulogized Tamale Mirundi at his funeral in Kalagala-Kaliisizo, Kyotera.

“Nobody should lie to you that Mirundi can be replaced. There’s nobody that can fill his shoes and do the things that he used to do. He was extremely knowledgeable. I want to thank the President’s office and State House for giving him a befitting send-off.” said Frank Gashumba.

The tough-speaking Gashumba also lashed out at the state for dumping its servants. Following Mirundi’s dismissal as the President’s spokesperson in 2015, he was on record castigating the President and the government for abandoning him. Gashumba, who was a close confidant of the deceased, re-echoed Mirundi’s sentiments against the government. He called upon the government to appreciate its workers while they are still alive and not wait to accord them extravagant burials.

Defending his statements, Gashumba revealed that Mirundi had requested him to speak hard truths in the event that he passed on. The Sisimuka Uganda founder also commended individuals that Mirundi had criticized for not taking it personally.

“Death doesn’t want to know the status you hold in society. Whether you’re a General or a layperson, we shall all die. None of you [present mourners] will be on this earth 100 years from now.” said Frank Gashumba.

In a tough-speaking tone, Gashumba cautioned President Museveni’s aides and confidants for frustrating his supporters.

“President Museveni is not as bad as you people think. But he has a ring that encloses him and frustrates everybody. There was a time Mirundi was traveling in a very cheap vehicle and couldn’t even afford fuel. This was because this ring of people had lied to the President that Tamale had run mad.” Gashumba added.

He also offered advice to the deceased’s children, asking them to stay grounded. He particularly warned blogger Tamale Mirundi Junior to carefully choose his battles as his main defender is no more.

Despite publicly requesting to be buried while standing, the former Presidential spokesperson was laid to rest in the normal way on Sunday afternoon.

The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including ministers, religious leaders, and politicians from all political parties. Vice President Jessica Alupo represented the government and pledged their support to his family.

Mirundi succumbed to pneumonia on 13th August after a month-long admission at Kisubi Hospital.