‘Ulisikia wapi?’ legend Selemani Bungara dies as Kenyans remember viral phrase origin

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Kenyans have taken to social media to remember former Tanzanian MP Selemani Bungara, the man behind the viral phrase “Ulisikia wapi?” after confirmation of his death following a short illness.

Bungara, widely known as Bwege, served as Member of Parliament for Kilwa South for nearly two decades and was known for his animated, grassroots style of politics.

Where ‘Ulisikia wapi?’ came from

The phrase “Ulisikia wapi?”--loosely translated as “Where did you hear that?”--became a pop culture moment in 2020.

At the time, rumours had spread that Bungara had defected politically.

In a press conference, he forcefully denied the claims, challenging reporters with the now‑famous phrase.

The clip was shared widely online, especially in Kenya and Tanzania, and the expression quickly became shorthand for calling out rumours or unverified claims.

Across East Africa, “Ulisikia wapi?” became more than a quote--it became a meme, slogan and everyday comeback whenever someone questioned the source of a claim or allegation.

Kenyans pay tribute

Hours after news of his death emerged, Kenyan social media users shared throwback clips and tributes, recalling how the phrase had woven itself into everyday conversation:

• Social media commentators reminisced about the phrase’s impact on political and online discourse.
• Many noted how it had crossed borders to become a part of popular speech among young people.

Bungara’s legacy in Kenya today is shaped not just by his political career but by a single phrase that endured far beyond the original moment.

His death at 64 on Monday, March 30, 2026, could have taken his soul, but the spirit of his questioning "Ulisikia Wapi?" will definitely outlive his for years to come.