Tanzanian former MP famous for ‘oliskia wapi’ phrase is dead
Veteran Tanzanian politician Selemani Bungara, known for his oliskia wapi phrase and a former MP for Kilwa South, has died while awaiting treatment at EM Hospital in Mji Mwema, Dar es Salaam.
His brother, Nasri Omari, confirmed that Bungara passed away before receiving medical treatment. Speaking to a local Tanzanian newspaper on Monday, March 30, 2026, Omari said his brother had been waiting for dialysis services when his condition suddenly worsened around midday.
You might also like
“He died while waiting to receive dialysis treatment, but before the service could begin, at around 1 pm., his condition changed suddenly, and he passed away,” he said.
Bungara had recently resigned from ACT-Wazalendo in February 2026 and joined Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (Chadema).
His family is currently holding internal discussions to arrange funeral plans, with an official public statement expected later.
Political career
He represented the Kilwa South constituency in the Lindi Region of Tanzania. He was a member of the ACT-Wazalendo party (and formerly CUF). He served as an MP until he lost his seat in the October 2020 General Election to Ally Kasinge of the ruling CCM party.
Oliskia wapi?
Bungara gained viral fame across East Africa in 2020 after a video clip from a press conference circulated widely online. In the clip, he angrily dismissed claims that he had defected to the ruling party and asked reporters, olisikia wapi? — Swahili for “Where did you hear that?” in a tone and delivery that many found memorable and humorous.
The phrase quickly spread on social media, especially in Kenya, where it was often stylised as “Oliskia wapi?” and turned into a popular meme, used in online conversations and on merchandise.
Despite this online popularity, Bungara later lost his parliamentary seat in the 2020 general election, ending his 15-year tenure in Parliament.
Since losing his seat, he has remained a well-known public figure, often featured in interviews and social media content across the region.
