By Suleman Chitera
LILONGWE, Malawi — The Parliamentary Ad-hoc Committee investigating the tragic Chikangawa plane crash that claimed the life of former Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima says it is receiving extensive information that is helping shape the direction of the ongoing inquiry.Dr. Saulos Chilima: Ruling from the Grave – The Winds of Change Stir in Malawi
Chairperson of the committee, Walter Nyamilandu Manda, has disclosed that witnesses and evidence presented so far are providing critical insights into areas that require further examination as lawmakers seek to establish the circumstances surrounding one of Malawi’s most devastating aviation disasters.
Speaking during the ongoing hearings, Nyamilandu Manda emphasized that the committee remains committed to conducting a thorough, transparent, and professional investigation before reaching any conclusions.
“The inquiry is receiving extensive information that is providing useful direction on areas that still need further examination,” he said.
First Phase Focuses on Flight Planning and Authorization
According to Nyamilandu Manda, the committee is currently conducting the first phase of the inquiry, which is primarily focused on pre-flight planning, authorization procedures, and aircraft preparation.
This phase aims to establish how the military aircraft was assigned to the mission, who authorized the flight, the operational procedures followed before departure, and whether all required protocols were observed.
The committee is also examining how the aircraft was prepared for the journey and the chain of decision-making that preceded the flight.
The findings from this phase are expected to provide a clearer understanding of the events leading up to the aircraft’s departure before investigators move on to more technical and operational aspects of the tragedy.
More Phases Yet to Begin
Nyamilandu Manda revealed that phases two and three of the investigation have not yet commenced.
While details of the upcoming phases have not been fully disclosed, they are expected to cover additional aspects of the crash, including flight operations, communication systems, weather conditions, aviation procedures, search and rescue efforts, and the broader circumstances surrounding the accident.
The phased approach is intended to ensure that every element of the investigation is examined systematically and comprehensively.
Witness Testimonies Continue
The committee is expected to continue hearing testimonies from witnesses in the coming days as it gathers information from individuals and institutions connected to the flight.Chakwera receives inquiry report on plane crash
Various government officials, aviation experts, military personnel, and other stakeholders have already appeared before the committee to provide evidence and clarify issues under review.
The hearings are considered a critical component of the inquiry as lawmakers seek to piece together an accurate account of events before, during, and after the flight.
Chilima Family to Be Engaged
In a significant development, Nyamilandu Manda confirmed that the committee will also engage members of the late Vice President Saulos Chilima’s family at a later stage.
The inclusion of the family is expected to provide additional perspectives while ensuring that those directly affected by the tragedy are given an opportunity to participate in the national search for answers.
The loss of Chilima, alongside several other passengers and crew members, shocked Malawi and attracted international attention, prompting widespread calls for transparency and accountability.
Public Interest Remains High
The Chikangawa plane crash remains one of the most discussed events in Malawi’s recent history. Many citizens continue to seek clarity regarding the circumstances that led to the accident.
The parliamentary inquiry was established amid growing public interest and demands for a detailed review of the events surrounding the fatal flight.Amaryllis Hotel public inquiry finishes questions still there
Observers believe the committee’s findings could play a crucial role in strengthening aviation safety, improving accountability mechanisms, and restoring public confidence in official investigations.
Thorough Assessment Before Conclusions
Nyamilandu Manda stressed that despite the volume of information already received, the committee will not rush to make findings.
Instead, all evidence collected during the various phases of the inquiry will be subjected to a comprehensive assessment before any conclusions or recommendations are made.
The committee’s final report is expected to provide lawmakers and the public with a detailed account of its findings, including recommendations aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.Kamangila reports Malondera, PAC to ACB on Amaryllis Hotel inquiry
As the investigation progresses, Malawians continue to closely follow developments, hoping the inquiry will provide definitive answers about the events that culminated in the Chikangawa plane crash and the death of former Vice President Saulos Chilima.
