By Burnett Munthali
The nation of Malawi is in shock and mourning after the tragic plane crash in Chikangawa that claimed the lives of Vice President Saulos Chilima and several other high-profile officials. As we struggle to comprehend this immense loss, the government’s response—particularly the delay in forming a commission of inquiry—has raised serious concerns among citizens demanding transparency, answers, and justice.
For many, the loss of the Vice President is not just a blow to political leadership but a personal tragedy. His role in guiding the nation’s democratic journey and championing national unity leaves a void that will not easily be filled. The Chikangawa crash has undoubtedly shaken the very fabric of Malawian society, making it all the more critical to uncover the truth behind this incident.
President Lazarus Chakwera has promised a commission of inquiry, but the delay in its establishment has created widespread suspicion and frustration. Malawians are demanding answers—how did this tragedy happen, and who is responsible for the conditions leading up to it? Quick action is necessary not only to provide closure to grieving families but also to reaffirm citizens’ trust in the nation’s institutions.
As part of this inquiry, there must be no stone left unturned. Every individual and department connected to aviation, security, and emergency response must be scrutinized. Suspicion naturally falls on those responsible for the Vice President’s safety, especially given the high stakes of the situation. To ensure a fair and unbiased investigation, those in positions of influence, such as the army commander, the police chief, top aviation officials, and all personnel on duty during the incident, should consider stepping down temporarily. This is not only a matter of transparency but a critical step toward restoring public trust.
Leadership must go beyond symbolic gestures; it must embody accountability. When public officials accept their roles, they accept the responsibility that comes with them. If there are even the slightest indications of negligence, these individuals should willingly relinquish their duties, allowing a full investigation to proceed without interference. The safety of our leaders and citizens is not something to be compromised, and Malawi deserves answers from those entrusted with national security.
Transparency also requires that the inquiry be made public. Malawians must witness their leaders’ commitment to justice through open hearings, honest disclosures, and a willingness to hold those responsible accountable, no matter their rank or status. Without this transparency, there is a risk that any findings may lack credibility, deepening public distrust in institutions already under scrutiny.
The Chikangawa plane crash has cast a dark shadow over Malawi, but how we respond to this tragedy will define our nation’s future. Will we accept silence and inaction, or will we demand answers and accountability from those in power? The death of Vice President Chilima and other innocent lives cannot become just another tragedy without consequence.
The entire nation mourns together, but our grief must fuel our pursuit of justice. President Chakwera and his administration have an opportunity to restore trust in government institutions through swift, decisive action. The people of Malawi deserve nothing less than full accountability, complete transparency, and, above all, the truth.
