Thousands of people converged Monday in Chijere Village, Nkhata Bay District, to pay their last respects to renowned lawyer Ralph Kasambara, who died on Friday in Lilongwe.
According to an autopsy, Kasambara, who once served as Attorney General and Justice Minister, died suddenly following a heart attack.
Eulogies delivered by speakers highlighted Kasambara’s contributions to the legal profession and what was described as his unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law.
Clad in black, Tazizwa Kasambara, the deceased’s third-born son, said his father was always more inclined to helping others than himself.
“He was truly a miracle worker, not only in the courtroom. Dad, your work ethic was one of a kind,” Tazizwa said.
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Representing the legal fraternity, Victor Gondwe hailed Kasambara’s dedication to justice, adding that he was not just a good advocate but also a leader.
“Ralph used the law to bring about economic transformation and challenged us to use the opportunities we have to help others. Before his death, Ralph was writing a book on civil procedure, which tells us one thing: we should be doers of the law,” Gondwe said.
Renowned lawyer Kalekeni Kaphale, who attended law school with Kasambara from 1986 to 1991, spoke of what he described as Kasambara’s rigorous work ethic and “unparalleled love of God, family and others”.
In an interview, Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara described Kasambara as patriotic and a mentor of many.
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Representing President Lazarus Chakwera, Minister of Defence Harry Mkandawire indicated that Ralph had taught many of the current lawyers and was a freedom fighter who opposed decisions to bar demonstrations in the country.
Vice President Saulos Chilima was expected to attend the burial ceremony, but his plane was unable to land at Mzuzu Airport due to bad weather.
Despite the cold winds sweeping through the crowd, the warmth of shared memories provided comfort to the bereaved.
Kasambara, who died at the age of 55, is survived by a wife and three children.
Other notable people who attended the burial ceremony included former vice president Khumbo Kachali, and Minister of Local Government Richard Chimwendo Banda.
