By Burnett Munthali
Ralph Kasambara, the former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Malawi, has passed away.
Kasambara was a prominent and controversial figure in Malawian politics and law.
He served under President Bingu wa Mutharika and later under President Joyce Banda, where he played crucial roles in the administration of justice and legal affairs of the country.
Kasambara’s career was significantly impacted by his involvement in the “Cashgate” scandal, which was a large corruption case that shook Malawi.
In 2016, he was convicted and sentenced to 13 years in prison for conspiring to murder Paul Mphwiyo, a key figure in the scandal.
Despite his conviction, he continued to appeal his case, and his legal battles remained unresolved for several years.
His death marks the end of a tumultuous chapter in Malawian political and legal history.
Kasambara’s life and career were characterized by both significant achievements and profound controversies, leaving a complex legacy behind.