Host: Burnett Munthali
Ralph Kasambara was a towering figure whose contributions to Malawi’s legal, political, and social landscape left an indelible mark. His sudden and mysterious death has raised more questions than answers, leaving many Malawians yearning for the truth. As a social commentator, your insights could provide much-needed clarity and provoke critical discourse.
Rick Dzida (RD): Thank you so much Burnett for according me this interview. I will attempt to answer the questions objectively to the best of my knowledge.
Kindly respond to the following questions:
1) Personal reflection
1.1. How would you describe Ralph Kasambara’s legacy in Malawi?
RD: Ralph Kasambara’s legacy in Malawi is complex and multifaceted.
As a prominent lawyer, jurist, and politician, he played significant roles in shaping the country’s justice system and politics.
On one hand, Kasambara was a vocal advocate for justice and human rights. He served as the President and Chairman of the Malawi Law Society and was a strong critic of President Mutharika’s administration, advocating for his impeachment.
On the other hand, Kasambara’s legacy is also marred by controversy.
He was involved in the Capital Hill Cashgate Scandal and was later convicted of conspiring to murder a civil servant, Paul Mphwiyo, in a crime linked to a multi-million dollar corruption ring .
Kasambara’s death in 2024 was met with mixed reactions, reflecting the divided opinions about his legacy.
While some remembered him as a champion of justice, others saw him as a symbol of corruption and abuse of power.
Ultimately, Kasambara’s legacy serves as a reminder of the complexities of Malawian politics and the need for continued efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and justice.
1.2. In your opinion, what made him such a polarizing yet respected figure?
RD: Kasambara’s complex legacy reflects the intricacies of Malawian politics and the legal profession.
His respected professional standing, combined with his controversial politics and personal scandals, cemented his status as a polarizing figure.
I can glean three key factors that contributed to Kasambara’s polarizing character.
First, Kasambara practised controversial politics. His involvement in high-profile cases and his criticism of the government created controversy and divided opinions.
Second, Kasambara was convicted and imprisoned. His conviction for conspiracy to murder and money laundering charges further polarized public opinion.
Third, Kasambara was a respected professional. Despite his controversies, Kasambara remained a respected figure in Malawi’s legal community, known for his intellectual prowess and contributions to the field.
2) Circumstances surrounding his death
2.1. The official narrative suggests Kasambara succumbed to a heart condition he had been managing for years. Do you believe this explanation is sufficient?
RD: It is true that Ralph Kasambara had been managing heart ailment for many years. I reckon that he was granted bail even after being convicted of conspiracy to attempted murder because of such chronic heart condition.
I still recall the time Ralph Kasambara excused himself from Kachale’s HardTalk WhatsApp group that he planned to visit a doctor in South Africa for the regular heart medical check-ups. Kasambara was an open-minded person.
Therefore, the official narrative surrounding Ralph Kasambara’s death, attributing it to a heart condition, may be sufficient for some.
However, others have raised concerns and questions, fuelling speculation and skepticism.
The official explanation may be seen as lacking in detail, fuelling speculation about the circumstances surrounding his death.
Some have questioned the timing of his death, given his high-profile status and past controversies.
Kasambara’s involvement in high-profile cases and controversies may have contributed to skepticism about the official narrative.
Rumors about Kasambara’s health have circulated in the past, which may have contributed to doubts about the official explanation.
This is why some have called for an independent investigation into Kasambara’s death to address concerns and provide clarity.
2.2. What do you make of allegations that someone secretly visited Kasambara on the night of his death and left without notifying lodge management?
RD: The allegations of a secret visitor on the night of Ralph Kasambara’s death raise several concerns and questions.
The alleged secrecy surrounding the visitor’s identity and purpose fuels speculation and mistrust.
The visitor may have valuable information about Kasambara’s final hours or potentially be a suspect in any investigation.
If true, the allegations challenge the official account of Kasambara’s death, which may have been attributed to natural causes.
These allegations necessitate a thorough investigation to determine the visitor’s identity, purpose, and potential involvement in Kasambara’s death.
Lodge staff, management, and potential witnesses should be interviewed to corroborate or refute the allegations.
Any available security footage should be reviewed to identify the alleged visitor and their activities.
A thorough forensic analysis of Kasambara’s room and surroundings may provide additional clues.
In a nutshell, the allegations of a secret visitor on the night of Ralph Kasambara’s death warrant a comprehensive investigation to uncover the truth. Transparency, accountability, and justice demand that all aspects of this case be thoroughly examined.
2.3. Reports indicate that drugs were found in his room. What is your take on these reports? Could these substances have played a role in his demise?
RD: The reports of drugs found in Ralph Kasambara’s room after his death are troubling and warrant further investigation.
The presence of drugs could suggest the possibility of an accidental overdose, which may have contributed to Kasambara’s death.
Alternatively, the discovery of drugs could raise suspicions of foul play, potentially involving deliberate administration of substances to harm or incapacitate Kasambara.
The presence of drugs might also indicate personal struggles or addiction issues, which could have had a bearing on Kasambara’s mental and physical health.
A thorough toxicology report is essential to determine the type and quantity of substances present in Kasambara’s system at the time of death.
The autopsy report should be made public to provide clarity on the cause of death and potential contributing factors.
Interviews with individuals who may have had contact with Kasambara in the hours leading up to his death could provide valuable insights.
In a nutshell, the discovery of drugs in Kasambara’s room adds a complex layer to the investigation into his death. It is essential to approach this new information with caution, considering multiple scenarios and potential explanations.
A comprehensive investigation, including toxicology reports, autopsy results, and witness statements, is necessary to determine the circumstances surrounding Kasambara’s demise.
3) Speculations and theories
3.1. Do you think foul play was involved in his death? If so, who might have had the motive and opportunity?
RD: Speculating about foul play in Ralph Kasambara’s death is a sensitive topic.
While I don’t have conclusive evidence, I can provide an analysis of potential motives and opportunities.
Potential motives
Kasambara’s vocal criticism of the government and his involvement in high-profile cases might have created powerful enemies.
His work as a lawyer and businessman could have led to conflicts with individuals or organizations with significant financial interests.
Kasambara’s past controversies and conflicts might have led to personal vendettas against him.
Potential suspects
Individuals within the government or connected to the ruling party might have seen Kasambara as a threat to their power or interests.
Former business partners or associates might have had motives to harm Kasambara, especially if their interests were threatened.
Those who felt wronged by Kasambara in the past might have sought revenge.
Opportunity and means
The perpetrator would have needed access to Kasambara, potentially through his inner circle or by exploiting his trust.
The individual or group would have required resources and capabilities to plan and execute the crime, potentially including access to toxic substances or other means.
In a nutshell, while there are potential motives and suspects, it’s essential to emphasize that these are speculative and not conclusive.
A thorough investigation is necessary to determine the circumstances surrounding Kasambara’s death.
3.2. Considering Kasambara’s political and legal influence, do you believe his death could have been politically motivated?
RD: Considering Ralph Kasambara’s significant political and legal influence, it’s plausible to suspect that his death could have been politically motivated.
Kasambara’s outspoken criticism of the government and its officials might have created powerful enemies.
His involvement in high-profile cases, potentially threatening the interests of influential individuals or groups, could have motivated a politically driven attack.
Kasambara’s reputation as a formidable lawyer and his influence within Malawi’s legal and political circles might have been seen as a threat to certain interests.
Kasambara’s vocal criticism of the government might have been seen as a threat to their power or interests.
His involvement in high-profile cases could have threatened the interests of influential individuals or groups, motivating a politically driven attack.
Kasambara’s influence and reputation might have been seen as a challenge to the existing power dynamics in our country.
A comprehensive investigation into Kasambara’s death is necessary to determine the circumstances and potential motives.
The investigation should be transparent, with regular updates and public disclosure of findings to ensure accountability.
In a nutshell, while a politically motivated theory is plausible, it is essential to approach this speculation with caution and consider multiple scenarios.
A thorough investigation is necessary to uncover the truth surrounding Kasambara’s death.
3.3. What do you think of the claims made by some UTM members that an independent inquiry should be conducted?
RD: The claims made by some UTM members for an independent inquiry into Ralph Kasambara’s death are understandable and justified.
An independent inquiry would provide transparency and accountability, ensuring that the investigation is impartial and unbiased.
UTM members and the general public may have concerns about the credibility and independence of a government-led investigation.
An independent inquiry would help uncover the truth surrounding Kasambara’s death, addressing speculation and rumors.
An independent inquiry would demonstrate a commitment to public trust and accountability, essential for maintaining confidence in the government and institutions.
An independent inquiry would also ensure that the investigation is conducted impartially, without undue influence or interference.
An independent inquiry could assemble a team of experts with specialized knowledge and skills to investigate Kasambara’s death.
An independent inquiry could engage with the public, providing regular updates and ensuring that concerns and questions are addressed.
In a nutshell, the call for an independent inquiry into Ralph Kasambara’s death is a reasonable request, given the circumstances and public interest.
An independent inquiry would provide transparency, accountability, and confidence in the investigation, ultimately helping to uncover the truth and maintain public trust.
4) Broader implications
4.1. How does the unresolved nature of his death affect Malawi’s trust in its justice system?
RD: The unresolved nature of Ralph Kasambara’s death has significant implications for Malawi’s trust in its justice system.
The lack of a conclusive investigation and prosecution may create a perception that those responsible for Kasambara’s death are above the law.
The unresolved case may raise doubts about the ability of the justice system to hold individuals accountable for their actions.
The unclear circumstances surrounding Kasambara’s death may create fear among whistleblowers, activists, and critics of the government, potentially silencing them.
The unresolved case may damage the credibility of the justice system, undermining public confidence in its ability to deliver justice.
The perception that justice is applied selectively, with some individuals or groups receiving preferential treatment, may exacerbate mistrust.
The Kasambara case may highlight systemic weaknesses, such as inadequate investigative capacity, corruption, or political interference.
The unresolved case may contribute to increased polarization, as different groups and individuals may have competing narratives and theories about Kasambara’s death.
Mistrust in the justice system may lead to decreased civic engagement, as citizens may feel that their voices are not being heard or that their participation will not lead to meaningful change.
The erosion of trust in the justice system may undermine democracy in Malawi, as citizens may lose faith in the institutions and processes that are essential to democratic governance.
A transparent and independent investigation into Kasambara’s death is essential to rebuilding trust in the justice system.
4.2. Given the coinciding tragedy of Vice President Saulos Chilima’s death, do you think these events have overshadowed the need for a deeper investigation into Kasambara’s case?
RD: The tragic death of Vice President Saulos Chilima in a plane crash, which occurred while he was en route to attend Ralph Kasambara’s burial, has undoubtedly overshadowed the need for a deeper investigation into Kasambara’s case. Thanks for this interview. I hope concerned people will take it from this juncture.
The coincidence of these two events has led to a significant amount of attention being focused on the plane crash and its victims, rather than Kasambara’s mysterious death.
As a result, the momentum for a thorough investigation into Kasambara’s death may have been lost, at least temporarily.
The government and authorities may have been distracted by the more high-profile tragedy of the plane crash, potentially diverting resources and attention away from Kasambara’s case.
Furthermore, the fact that Vice President Chilima was on his way to attend Kasambara’s burial highlights the significance of Kasambara’s death and the potential implications of his case.
It is essential that the authorities prioritize a thorough and transparent investigation into Kasambara’s death, despite the overshadowing effect of the plane crash tragedy.
Key concerns:
The investigation into Kasambara’s death may lack transparency, potentially leading to speculation and mistrust.
The attention and resources devoted to the plane crash tragedy may divert attention away from Kasambara’s case.
The significance of Kasambara’s death and its potential implications may be overlooked in the wake of the plane crash tragedy
4.3. How can Malawians ensure that prominent figures like Kasambara receive justice and recognition in life and death?
RD: To ensure that prominent figures like Ralph Kasambara receive justice and recognition in life and death, Malawians can take several steps:
The government and institutions should be transparent in their investigations and decision-making processes. Malawians should hold them accountable for any actions or inactions that may compromise justice.
Independent investigations can help uncover the truth and ensure that justice is served. Malawians can advocate for independent investigations into high-profile cases like Kasambara’s death.
Malawians should uphold the principles of constitutionalism and the rule of law, which are essential for ensuring justice and accountability. This includes respecting the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary .
Malawians should engage in civic activities, such as protests, petitions, and advocacy campaigns, to demand justice and recognition for prominent figures like Kasambara.
Human rights organizations can play a crucial role in promoting justice and accountability. Malawians can support these organizations through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness about their work.
By taking these steps, Malawians can help ensure that prominent figures like Ralph Kasambara receive justice and recognition in both life and death.
5) The way forward
5.1. Should there be a renewed investigation into Kasambara’s death? If yes, what should be its scope and focus?
RD: A renewed investigation into Ralph Kasambara’s death is warranted, considering the lingering questions and concerns surrounding his demise.
Scope of the Investigation
Review the original autopsy report and consider conducting a new autopsy or toxicology analysis to clarify the cause of death.
Re-interview witnesses, family members, and individuals who had contact with Kasambara in the days leading up to his death.
Obtain and analyze Kasambara’s phone records, emails, and other digital data to identify potential leads or suspicious activity.
Examine potential motives for Kasambara’s death, including his involvement in high-profile cases, business dealings, and political activities.
Focus of the Investigation
Establish a clear and conclusive cause of death, addressing any inconsistencies or discrepancies in the original investigation.
Investigate and identify potential perpetrators or individuals who may have had a motive to harm Kasambara.
Investigate whether there was any obstruction of justice, cover-up, or tampering with evidence in the original investigation.
Ensure that the investigation provides closure and justice for Kasambara’s family, friends, and the wider community.
Establish if there is a causative link between Saulos Chilima’s plane CD crash and Ralph Kasambara’s sudden death.
Recommendations for the investigation
Appoint independent and impartial investigators to lead the renewed investigation.
Ensure transparency throughout the investigation, providing regular public updates on progress and findings.
Consider collaborating with international experts or organizations to provide additional expertise and oversight.
Ensure the protection of witnesses and whistleblowers who come forward with information, providing them with adequate safeguards and support.
5.2. What message would you like to convey to the Malawian public regarding this matter?
RD : The death of Ralph Kasambara has left many unanswered questions and concerns.
As a nation, it is essential to acknowledge the significance of Kasambara’s life and work, as well as the impact of his death on his family, friends, and the broader community.
Malawians are requested to pursue the following actions and recommendations:
Continue to demand transparency and accountability from the authorities regarding the investigation into Kasambara’s death.
Seek justice and truth, not only for Kasambara’s family but also for the sake of the nation’s integrity and the rule of law.
Encourage national dialogue and reflection on the issues that Kasambara’s life and death represent, including the importance of human rights, the rule of law, and accountability.
Honor Kasambara’s legacy by continuing to advocate for the values he stood for, including justice, equality, and human rights.
Stay informed about developments in the investigation and demand regular updates from the authorities about Kasambara’s death.
Support Kasambara’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Advocate for changes in the justice system and governance structures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Stand together as a nation to demand justice, transparency, and accountability.
Respect different perspectives and opinions, while maintaining a commitment to the values of justice, equality, and human rights.
Work together to build a better future for Malawi, one that is founded on the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
We value your perspective and believe that your responses could shed light on this critical issue.
Thank you so much Rick for the interview we have had with you today
RD: You’re welcome, Burnett. It has been an honor to share my thoughts on such an important topic. I hope our discussion contributes to greater understanding and inspires action towards uncovering the truth about Ralph Kasambara’s death. Let’s remain committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and justice in Malawi.
