In a tragic occurrence, Malawi lost its Vice President Saulos Chilima in a plane crash that also claimed the lives of nine other passengers. The ill-fated aircraft went missing after failing to land at Mzuzu International Airport, located 380 km north of the capital. The wreckage was found, “completely destroyed”, in the northern region’s Chikangawa Forest, disclosed President Lazarus Chakwera in a nation address.
A Roman Catholic, Chilima was described by Chakwera as “a good man, a devoted father and husband”, Chilima’s untimely death is a severe loss to his family, friends, colleagues, and the nation. The tragedy extended beyond Chilima, affecting the families of the nine additional passengers who also lost their lives in the crash.
Reportedly, the unfortunate crash occurred despite the aircraft’s reliable track record, and experienced crew. President Chakwera, who himself had traveled on the same aircraft, expressed his grief and offered condolences to the families of the victims.
In recognition of the tragedy, Malawi will observe a 21-day national mourning period from June 11 to July 1. The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, offered his condolences, standing with the people of Malawi in this distressing time.