By Burnett Munthali
The Ex-Soldiers Forum, a platform bringing together retired military personnel, has established the Ex-Soldiers Charity Organization (ESCO), now registered with the Council for Non-Governmental Organizations in Malawi (CONGOMA). ESCO aims to support both civilians and retired soldiers while fostering discussions on critical national issues.
Retired Corporal Easy , a member of the forum and a veteran of the Parachute Battalion, shared his thoughts in an exclusive interview. The conversation spanned politics, military history, aviation challenges, and the controversial Chikangawa plane crash.
One of the key topics of discussion in the forum is the Chikangawa plane crash that claimed the lives of Vice President Saulos Chilima and seven others. Despite the absence of concrete evidence, forum members insist that the full truth about the crash remains hidden. The lack of transparency and conflicting reports have left many questions unanswered, fueling skepticism among retired soldiers.
Retired corporal Easy reflected on the era of Presidents Kamuzu Banda and Bakili Muluzi, when military aviation was a symbol of efficiency and pride. During Banda’s presidency, multiple helicopters, including Puma models, were regularly used for crop inspection tours and other state duties. These aircraft also served during Muluzi’s administration.
However, the current state of military aviation paints a starkly different picture. The Puma helicopters have been grounded and condemned, while other aircraft like the Dakota, which played a pivotal role in Mozambique operations, are no longer operational. Easy noted that while the Dakota performed exceptionally during its last flight, its current status is emblematic of the broader challenges facing Malawi’s military aviation.
The Dornier 228, a military aircraft recently used by the President, has become a focal point of debate. Despite being serviced and declared fit for use, questions linger about its safety and reliability.
“Why was the Dornier 228 not condemned if it had issues, like other aircraft at the Air Wing?” Simple asked. He also pointed out the existence of other operational Dornier 228 planes within the military fleet, prompting further questions about their origins. “When did the other functioning Dornier 228 aircraft arrive in Malawi? Did they come at the same time, or were some acquired later?”
The retired corporal emphasized the importance of clear communication and accountability in military operations. The inconsistencies in the handling of aircraft—some grounded, others operational—raise serious concerns about maintenance practices and decision-making within the Air Wing.
Beyond aviation issues, the Ex-Soldiers Forum provides a space for retired soldiers to reflect on the differences between the military of the past and today. They engage in discussions about politics, national security, and the challenges facing both the military and civilian sectors. Through ESCO, the forum also offers tangible support to those in need, ensuring that veterans and civilians alike have a safety net.
As Malawi continues to grapple with questions about its military history and aviation capabilities, platforms like the Ex-Soldiers Forum offer valuable insights. The unresolved issues surrounding the Chikangawa plane crash and the Dornier 228 aircraft underscore the need for greater transparency and accountability in the nation’s defense systems.
Retired Corporal Easy s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of honoring military history while addressing present challenges with honesty and integrity.
