Former Tanzanian MP Behind Viral “Uliskia Wapi” Meme Dies

Former Tanzanian Member of Parliament Seleman Bungara, popularly known as “Bwege” and famous for the viral phrase “Uliskia wapi?”, has passed away.

Reports say Bungara died on Monday while receiving treatment in Dar es Salaam.

Bungara previously served as the Member of Parliament for Kilwa South constituency, a position he held from 2005 after winning several terms under the Civic United Front (CUF). He later joined ACT Wazalendo, where he continued his political career.

He was known for his bold and outspoken style in Parliament, often speaking strongly on national issues and not avoiding confrontation during debates.

Over the years, he served in different parliamentary committees, including those dealing with agriculture, health (HIV and AIDS matters), and social development.

However, Bungara became widely known outside politics in 2020 after a short video of him addressing journalists went viral. In the clip, he strongly denied claims that he had defected to the ruling party and repeatedly asked, “Uliskia wapi?” meaning “Where did you hear that?”

The phrase quickly spread across East Africa, especially in Kenya, where it became a popular meme. Social media users modified it into “Olisikia wapi” and used it in jokes, captions, and even merchandise.

In the 2020 general election, Bungara lost his parliamentary seat after being defeated by a candidate from the ruling party, ending his 15-year stay in Parliament.

His political journey also included moments of controversy, including an arrest in 2020 during an opposition meeting, before later being released on bond.

Despite the ups and downs in his career, Bungara is remembered by many as a fiery politician and a cultural figure whose words went far beyond politics and entered everyday online conversations.

His death has sparked reactions on social media, with many remembering him for both his political work and the viral moment that made him a household name in East African internet culture.