Chasowa probe compromised
A law expert has said police investigations into the murder of University of Malawi’s Polytechnic student Robert Chasowa could be compromised because suspects have been forewarned.
Human rights activist Justin Dzonzi of Justice Link, in an exclusive interview, feared individuals mentioned and allegedly connected to the murder might have an unfair trial as they have already been prosecuted by the public.
Dzonzi argued commissions of inquiry are political processes and they create problems for independent police investigations.
The Justice Link executive director, a lawyer by profession, also argued individuals mentioned in the Justice Andrew Nyirenda Commission report can either tamper with evidence or bolt.
Dzonzi gave an example of one Peter Mulamba, a former Admarc and a cotton company senior manager, who disappeared in 2004 after a commission of inquiry report implicated him in a K2.9 billion (about $9.7 million) maize scam.
Said Dzonzi: “Even if police carries professional investigations, it will be difficult to find a jury, as is the requirement in homicide cases, which has not heard and discussed the issue. It is on this basis that I argue they [the suspects] may not have a fair trial.â€
Police investigating matter as homicide
Inspector General of Police (IG) Lot Dzonzi reiterated that a five-member investigative team he appointed upon receiving the Chasowa commission of inquiry report is in the field investigating the matter as a homicide case.
Dzonzi said police are moving with necessary speed, as was recommended by the commission, and will take appropriate action to arrest and prosecute individuals connected to the murder of Chasowa, based on police findings.
The IG said it must be understood that the commission’s report is not an investigative report, necessitating them to carry fully fledged investigations into Chasowa’s death.
Dzonzi said police are interviewing several people, including those who testified before the commission.
Asked if the publication of the report will not compromise police investigations or lead to bolting of some suspects, the IG said police appreciate the fact that the report is now a public document and all they can do is to move with the necessary speed.
He, however, admitted the investigations were delicate. Chasowa was during the reign of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) found dead at the Polytechnic campus on September 24 last year.
