Former Tanzanian Member of Parliament Seleman Bungara, popularly known as Bwege and widely recognised for his viral “Uliskia wapi” phrase, is dead.

Bungara passed away on Monday in Dar es Salaam while receiving treatment, according to reports.

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He once represented the Kilwa South constituency in Tanzania.

His death marks the end of a political career that spanned over a decade and left a lasting impression both in Tanzania and across East Africa’s digital space.

He served as MP for Kilwa South from 2005, winning multiple terms under the Civic United Front (CUF) before later joining the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT Wazalendo).

Known for his outspoken nature, Bungara built a reputation as a vocal legislator who did not shy away from confronting issues on the floor of the House.

During his time in Parliament, he served in several committees, including the Agriculture, Livestock and Water Committee between 2010 and 2013, the HIV and AIDS Affairs Committee from 2013 to 2015, and later the Social Development and Services Committee.

Bungara rose to widespread fame beyond politics in 2020 after a press conference clip in which he dismissed claims that he had defected to the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).

In a sharp and animated response to journalists, he posed the question, “Uliskia wapi?” loosely translated as “Where did you hear that?”

The phrase quickly went viral, particularly in Kenya, where social media users reworked it into “Olisikia wapi” and turned it into a popular meme, widely used in online conversations and even printed on merchandise.

Despite his popularity, Bungara lost his parliamentary seat in the October 2020 General Election after contesting under ACT Wazalendo.

He garnered 10,096 votes, losing to CCM candidate Ally Kasinge, who secured 22,521 votes.

The loss marked the end of his 15-year tenure in Parliament.

His political journey was not without challenges. In June 2020, shortly after joining ACT Wazalendo, Bungara was among opposition leaders arrested alongside party leader Zitto Kabwe during a political meeting. They were later released on bond.

He also had notable moments in Parliament, including a 2016 confrontation with the Deputy Speaker over his nickname ‘Bwege’, which drew national attention and highlighted his bold personality.

Bungara’s death has sparked reactions across social media, where many remembered him not only as a politician but also as a cultural figure whose words transcended borders and became part of everyday expression.

He is remembered as a charismatic leader, a vocal opposition figure and a man whose humour and style of communication resonated with many beyond the political arena.