State House Denies Outstanding Pledge to Tamale Mirundi's Family

State House has issued a clarification regarding alleged outstanding pledges to the family of the late Joseph Tamale Mirundi, a former Presidential Press Secretary and veteran journalist. The clarification comes in response to public statements made by Mirundi’s brother, Mr. John Ssali Ssembuya, during a memorial event marking two years since his death.

Mr. Ssali had expressed frustration, suggesting that the government had not adequately recognized or supported his family following Mirundi’s passing, despite his decades of defending the ruling party. He specifically mentioned a lack of feedback concerning government assistance and official acknowledgment.

Hajji Farouk Kirunda, the Deputy Press Secretary at State House, stated that records indicate no pending pledges to Mirundi’s household. He affirmed that the government provided support to Tamale Mirundi during his life, during his illness, and at the time of his death. Mr. Kirunda added that State House is open to reviewing any undocumented claims if the family can provide specific details and evidence.

The reported dispute appears to be linked to a proposed multi-billion-shilling memorial project. One of Mirundi’s daughters, Ms. Teddy Nantongo, revealed that the family initiated a Shs6 billion project in Mpigi to build what they called “Tamale Mirundi’s dream building.” President Yoweri Museveni was invited to launch the project, and though he couldn’t attend, he sent Mr. Kirunda. Ms. Nantongo stated that Mr. Kirunda requested bills of quantities for the President’s contribution, which the family understood as a commitment.

Addressing the family’s grievances, Mr. Kirunda distinguished between past assistance and current requests. He acknowledged that the government contributed over Shs35 million towards Mirundi’s medical bills, a fact confirmed by Mr. Ssali. However, Mr. Kirunda clarified that the matter currently under review is not an unfulfilled pledge but a petition from the widows and orphans seeking support for economic empowerment.

He urged Mr. Ssali to provide particulars of any alleged pledge for proper follow-up. While the family awaits feedback on their economic empowerment request, the dialogue centers on the documentation for the building project and State House’s review of their petition. Even after his tenure as Press Secretary, Mirundi remained a vocal supporter of President Museveni until his death.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)