The family of former presidential press secretary, Joseph Tamale Mirundi, has expressed their gratitude to the Catholic Church for allowing them to hold a requiem mass in his honor.

Tamale’s brother, John Ssali Ssembuya, addressed the congregation at St. Gyaviira Parish Catholic Church in Bunamwaya, sharing that the family had been concerned the church might not host the mass because the late Tamale Mirundi had publicly expressed negative sentiments towards the Catholic Church while he was still alive. Ssali asked for forgiveness on Tamale’s behalf, pledging to personally reach out to those who may have been offended by his late brother.

Government also hailed Tamale as a dedicated journalist who served his country with diligence.

The Minister for Kampala, Minsa Kabanda, hailed Tamale for endeavoring through his media space to sensitize members of the public about governance and was a voice of the vulnerable.

Kabanda said that Mirundi had been appointed as a Senior Presidential Advisor on media matters by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni but declined the position for personal reasons.

“I need to point out that Mr. Tamale Mirundi was officially employed as a Senior Presidential advisor. This was a job given to him by H.E. the President of Uganda,” Kabanda said.

She revealed that despite his rejection to take up office, the President’s office and State House have committed to covering the costs of his burial, with this position.

Tamale Mirundi passed away from pneumonia on August 13, 2024, at Kisubi Hospital, at the age of 60. He had been battling health issues for over a month, with his condition deteriorating shortly before his death.

According to his funeral program, Mirundi’s body will be transported to his home in Kyengera for another mass On August 16, followed by a funeral procession at his ancestral village in Kalagala, Kalisizo, Rakai District on August 17, where a final mass will be held. Mirundi will be laid to rest on August 18, 2024.Additional reporting by ntv.