The nation of Malawi is in mourning after President Lazarus Chakwera confirmed that the wreck of a military aircraft carrying Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine others has been found with no survivors. The plane disappeared from airport radars on Monday morning amid bad weather conditions.
Vice President Chilima, aged 51, had served in his role since 2014 and was widely respected, particularly among the youth. He was on his way to represent the government at the burial of former government minister Ralph Kasambara when the aircraft vanished. The military plane, which took off from the capital Lilongwe, was supposed to land at Mzuzu International Airport but was turned back due to poor visibility.
During a news briefing on Tuesday, President Chakwera conveyed the grim news that the Malawi Defence Force commander had informed him the search and rescue operation had been completed and the plane located. He expressed his profound sorrow, stating, “I am deeply saddened and sorry to inform Malawians of this terrible tragedy.”
The aircraft was found completely destroyed in Chikangawa Forest, with all ten individuals on board confirmed dead. Among the passengers was former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri. The tragic incident has plunged the nation into grief.
Vice President Chilima was a pivotal figure in Malawian politics. Despite being from different political parties, he and President Chakwera formed an alliance during the 2020 elections, leading to their joint administration. Dr Chilima’s political career faced challenges; in 2022, he was arrested and charged with allegations of accepting bribes in exchange for awarding government contracts. However, these charges were dropped last month without explanation from the court.
Dr Chilima leaves behind a wife and two children. His death is a significant loss to the country, where he was a beloved figure. The Southern African Times extends its condolences to the families of all the victims and to the people of Malawi during this period of national mourning.
