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Former Tanzanian Member of Parliament Seleman Bungara, popularly known as Bwege and famed for the viral “Uliskia wapi” catchphrase, has passed away.
Reports indicate that Bungara died on Monday in Dar es Salaam while undergoing treatment.
He previously served as the MP for Kilwa South, marking a political career that lasted more than a decade and left a strong impact both in Tanzania and across East Africa’s online culture.
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Bungara first entered Parliament in 2005 under the Civic United Front (CUF), winning several terms before later joining ACT Wazalendo. He was widely known for his bold and outspoken style, often addressing issues directly on the parliamentary floor.
During his tenure, he served in various committees, including Agriculture, Livestock and Water (2010–2013), HIV and AIDS Affairs (2013–2015), and later the Social Development and Services Committee.
Beyond politics, he gained widespread recognition in 2020 after a press conference where he strongly dismissed claims that he had defected to the ruling CCM party. In response, he famously asked journalists, “Uliskia wapi?” meaning “Where did you hear that?”
The phrase quickly spread across social media, especially in Kenya where it evolved into “Olisikia wapi,” becoming a popular meme used in everyday conversations and even appearing on merchandise.
Despite his fame, Bungara lost his Kilwa South seat in the October 2020 General Election while vying on an ACT Wazalendo ticket. He received 10,096 votes, losing to CCM’s Ally Kasinge, who garnered 22,521 votes—bringing an end to his 15-year stint in Parliament.
His political journey also faced hurdles. In June 2020, shortly after joining ACT Wazalendo, he was arrested alongside party leader Zitto Kabwe during a political meeting, though they were later released on bond.
Bungara also made headlines in 2016 following a heated exchange with the Deputy Speaker over his nickname “Bwege,” a moment that underscored his fearless personality.
Following news of his death, tributes have poured in across social media, with many remembering him not just as a politician, but as a cultural icon whose words crossed borders and became part of everyday language.
He is remembered as a charismatic leader, a strong opposition voice, and a figure whose humour and unique communication style resonated far beyond politics.
