DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – Selemani Said Bungara, the former Member of Parliament for Kilwa South in Lindi Region, has died while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Kigamboni, Dar es Salaam.
His brother, Abbas S.A. Bungara, said the former member of parliament had been taken to the facility for continued dialysis before his condition worsened.
He said burial arrangements are underway, with the family currently gathered at his residence in Temeke, where mourners have started arriving.
Bungara, popularly known by his nickname “Bwege,” built a reputation as a vocal and unconventional politician, often drawing attention both inside and outside formal political spaces.
Over the years, his political journey cut across several opposition parties. He was at different times a member of the Civic United Front (CUF), later joined ACT Wazalendo, and more recently announced his move to CHADEMA.
His shifting political alignments reflected broader fractures within Tanzania’s opposition politics, particularly following internal disputes that weakened CUF and led to the rise of splinter movements like ACT Wazalendo.
Despite his health struggles in recent years, Bungara remained publicly active. He had been undergoing treatment linked to kidney complications and was receiving regular dialysis.
He also lost a leg due to illness, which left him using a wheelchair in his final months.
Even then, he continued to appear in public spaces. In his last days, he was frequently seen attending court sessions related to the case involving opposition figure Tundu Lissu, drawing attention from supporters and political observers.
Bungara served as MP for Kilwa South during his time with CUF, where he gained recognition for his outspoken style and grassroots connection with constituents in Lindi.
His death comes at a time when Tanzania’s opposition landscape continues to shift, with figures like Bungara representing a generation of politicians who moved across parties amid changing alliances and internal disputes.
Further details on funeral arrangements are expected to be released by the family.
