Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Sameer Gaffar Suleman, has described the late former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Madalitso Kazombo as a unifying force who used humility and humour to ease tension in the House.

Speaking during Kazombo’s burial on Sunday at Vikuyu Estate in Traditional Authority Kaomba, Kasungu District, Right Hon. Suleman said the late legislator had a rare ability to calm heated debates in the House, often restoring order and unity through light-hearted humour.

“Kazombo used to bring unity in Parliament by just using humour when the House was in a heated debate,” said the Speaker, noting that the late MP’s personal approach helped him foster constructive dialogue even during politically charged moments.

The Speaker recalled the late Hon. Kazombo’s active role during the 2014–2019 Parliament, where he served on several key committees, including Trade and Tourism; Transport and Public Works; and Local Authorities.

He also chaired the Population and Development Caucus, a role in which Suleman said Kazombo demonstrated unwavering commitment to parliamentary oversight and accountability.

Right Hon. Suleman further noted that during the 2019–2025 Parliament, late Hon. Kazombo was elected First Deputy Speaker and represented the National Assembly in various international fora, raising Malawi’s parliamentary profile beyond the country’s borders.

“Kazombo was a humble, social and approachable leader whose character endeared him to colleagues across the political divide,” Right Hon. Suleman lamented.

The burial ceremony drew a cross-section of national leadership and citizens, reflecting Kazombo’s broad influence and respect. In attendance were Deputy Speaker Hon. Victor Musowa, Second Deputy Speaker Hon. Esther Jolobala, serving and former Members of Parliament, former President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, former Vice Presidents Hon. Michael Usi and Hon.
Khumbo Kachali, Blantyre City Mayor Jomo Osman, and thousands of mourners who thronged Vikuyu Estate to pay their final respects.

Born on 31 May 1979, the late Madalitso Kazombo received his secondary education at Kamuzu Academy before obtaining a Bachelor of Social Science degree from the University of Malawi. In 2009, he qualified as a chartered accountant from the Malawi College of Accountancy and served in various private sector roles.

Late Kazombo entered politics in 2014 when he was elected Member of Parliament for Kasungu East, a position he held until his death, leaving behind a legacy of service, unity and principled leadership in Malawi’s Parliament.