By Burnett Munthali
As the Commission of Inquiry into the plane crash that claimed the life of Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others releases its findings, several critical questions have been addressed. Central to the inquiry is Dr. Lucky Sikwese, the Principal Secretary in the Office of the Vice President, whose testimony has provided significant clarity.
Key questions and answers
Question: Who made the decision for the Vice President to use the military plane?
Answer: Dr. Saulos Chilima himself.
Source of Evidence: Dr. Lucky Sikwese.
Question: Who requested the plane from the Malawi Defense Force (MDF)?
Answer: Dr. Lucky Sikwese.
Source of Evidence: Dr. Lucky Sikwese.
Question: Who informed Mr. Richard Chimwendo Banda that the plane was full?
Answer: Dr. Lucky Sikwese.
Source of Evidence: Dr. Lucky Sikwese.
Dr. Lucky Sikwese is the Principal Secretary in the Office of the Vice President. His role in facilitating the Vice President’s use of the military aircraft has made him a key figure in the inquiry. His testimony has provided insight into the decision-making processes leading up to the ill-fated flight.
The responses clarify the chain of decisions regarding the Vice President’s travel arrangements, countering earlier speculations about mismanagement or external interference. The Commission’s findings will likely be pivotal in shaping public perception of the tragic event.
As the nation continues to process this loss, the Commission’s full report, expected to be made public soon, will provide additional answers and recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.