By Burnett Munthali
Parliament’s Defence Committee is awaiting approval from the Speaker of the National Assembly to move forward with its plan to institute an inquiry into the plane crash that claimed the life of Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others. The tragic incident has raised numerous questions, prompting the committee to seek an official investigation.
During a recent meeting on the matter, the committee members overwhelmingly voted in favor of the inquiry, with 15 members supporting the motion and only one voting against it. The inquiry, if approved, will aim to uncover the circumstances surrounding the crash and provide answers to the nation.
Committee chairperson Salim Bagus confirmed the development to Capital FM, stating that the next step is in the hands of the Speaker. “We are now waiting for the Speaker to give us direction on the matter, as they have the final discretion. Once we receive that nod, we will proceed with the inquiry,” Bagus said.
The tragic death of Vice President Chilima has left the country in mourning, and many are eager to see a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. The Defence Committee is hopeful that the inquiry will shed light on the factors that led to the fatal accident and help prevent similar incidents in the future.