By Durell Namasani
For many years, renowned musician Lawrence Mbenjela has remained silent on matters concerning the late musician Israel Chatama. However, following recent social media discussions that have pointed fingers at him, Mbenjela has broken his silence to set the record straight regarding their professional and personal relationship. In a detailed statement, Mbenjela explained that he had chosen to walk away from any discussions about the late artist immediately after the funeral due to misunderstandings with the family, opting for peace by parting ways at that point.
Mbenjela made a startling revelation about the true nature of their collaboration, disclosing that the late Chatama did not write any of the songs on his two albums. According to Mbenjela, he was the sole writer of every track, including the lyrics for both verses and choruses. He further explained that he would record the lead and backing vocals himself, after which Chatama’s voice would be placed over the track to create the final version where he appeared to be the lead singer. In short, Mbenjela described the late Chatama as a “Mbenjere wamkabisila” (a hidden Mbenjela), emphasizing the extent of his involvement behind the scenes.
The musician also shed light on the contractual agreements that governed their partnership. He revealed that a contract was duly signed in the presence of COSOMA officials, with the late artist’s parents acting as witnesses. Mbenjela alleged that the percentage split and financial arrangements were based on misinformation provided when signing the ownership forms, which were meant to align with COSOMA’s revenue distribution framework. He stressed that this arrangement was unprecedented in the local music industry and required the blessing of the regulatory body to be formalized.
Beyond the music, Mbenjela shared personal details about his efforts to support the young artist. He disclosed that he took it upon himself to provide for Chatama, even building a house for his parents using his own resources. At the time, Mbenjela noted, Chatama was living a life akin to that of a street kid, often sleeping at the Kawale market in Area 23 when he had no place to stay. Mbenjela recounted how Chatama would openly admit to sleeping at the market, and out of concern, he approached the family to allow the young musician to live with him and attend school. He enrolled Chatama at a Seventh Day Adventist private school near Biwi, covering all related expenses through payments made directly to his parents.
On the tragic day of the accident, Mbenjela explained that they were returning from a show at Mtiti in Dowa. He noted that the show was not his own gate collection event but a paid booking, meaning all organization, including security, was handled by the event organizers. According to Mbenjela, Chatama had been drinking and smoking marijuana and, knowing that Mbenjela had a strict policy against performing under the influence, refused to ride in the same vehicle with him. Instead, he chose to ride at the back of the truck with other boys. Due to intoxication, Chatama struggled to maintain balance as the vehicle sped along, eventually losing control and falling off. Despite efforts by the other boys to save him, it was too late. Mbenjela further noted that approximately four to five police officers, whose vehicle had broken down, were also aboard the same truck, having requested a lift back from the show venue.
Mbenjela concluded by emphasizing that since the accident, there has been no communication between him and Chatama’s family. He expressed regret that the goodwill he extended has brought him personal turmoil, as the secret of their true working relationship, known only to the family, has been exploited by ill-intentioned individuals seeking to benefit from his troubles.
