Patricia Kaliati urges Parliament to investigate the Chikangawa plane crash that killed SKC and 8 others, raising questions about the missing black box.
By Suleman Chitera
Minister and veteran politician Patricia Kaliati has called on the Malawi Parliament to open a thorough, transparent investigation into the tragic plane crash that claimed the life of Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima (SKC) and eight others in the Chikangawa Forest in Mzimba.
Kaliati says the nation still has unanswered questions, particularly regarding the aircraft’s black box, a crucial device that records flight data and could help determine the exact cause of the crash.
At the center of public concern is Moses Kunkuyu, who previously informed Malawians that the black box had been recovered and was being kept by the government. However, months after the accident, no official findings or report have been released, leading to growing suspicion and frustration among citizens.
Many Malawians now want clear accountability and full disclosure.
“The country deserves the truth. The black box holds answers. We want to know where it is and what its data reveals,” said Kaliati.
Analysts say the black box would reveal critical information such as engine condition, pilot communication, altitude, route, and the sequence of events leading to the fatal crash. Without this data, the cause of the accident remains uncertain, fueling claims of possible negligence, cover-ups, or political interference.
Kaliati has emphasized that justice must not be selective, and that all officials who handled the case must be ready to explain their roles.
As pressure continues to mount, the public is urging Parliament and investigative agencies to:
Release an official accident report
Disclose the whereabouts and status of the black box
Provide a transparent timeline of the investigation
Allow independent aviation experts to review the findings
For many Malawians, this is not just about answers — it is about truth, accountability, and closure for the families of the victims and the entire nation.
