Malawians Demand Investigation into Plane Crash That Killed Former Vice President Saulos Chilima

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By Suleman Chitera

Lilongwe, Malawi — Malawians are calling for a thorough investigation into the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of former Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, as the incoming administration of Arthur Peter Mutharika takes office. Citizens say it is time for the truth to be revealed, accusing the outgoing government led by President Lazarus Chakwera of giving misleading information about the incident.

According to earlier statements from government officials, President Chakwera had told the nation that the military aircraft carrying Dr. Chilima had arrived safely in Mzuzu but was instructed to return to Lilongwe due to bad weather conditions. However, questions have since arisen about the accuracy of those statements following conflicting reports.

Conflicting Statements Raise Public Concern

During the aftermath of the crash, Valentino Phiri, one of the officials who briefed the public, claimed that the plane crashed in a thick forest. Later investigations and eyewitness reports revealed that the aircraft actually crashed near a village, contradicting the initial version of events.

Similarly, Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu assured Malawians that the aircraft’s black box had been recovered and secured. However, an official report from Germany indicated that the plane did not have a black box, further fueling public suspicion and mistrust.

Public Calls for Transparency and Accountability

With these discrepancies, many Malawians are urging the new administration under Arthur Peter Mutharika to launch an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Social commentators and civil society organizations argue that transparency is critical to restore public confidence in the government’s handling of national tragedies.

“The people of Malawi deserve to know the truth,” said one concerned citizen in Lilongwe. “Too many questions remain unanswered about what really happened to Dr. Chilima and the others who lost their lives.”

Background of the Tragedy

Dr. Saulos Chilima, who served as Malawi’s Vice President, was traveling with several other passengers when their Malawi Defence Force aircraft went missing en route to Mzuzu. After an intense search operation, the wreckage was later discovered, confirming the loss of all on board.

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The tragedy shocked the nation and prompted widespread mourning. However, as new details continue to emerge, calls for a transparent, fact-based investigation have only grown louder.

Conclusion

As the Mutharika administration takes over, the nation watches closely, hoping for a full disclosure of the facts behind the plane crash. Malawians say only the truth can bring closure to the families affected and restore public trust in government institutions.

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