By Vincent Gunde
A concerned citizen of Malawi activist Comrade Edwards Kambanje, has faulted the commission of inquiry findings for indirectly accusing the late Dr. Saulosi Chilima and his team for procedural failures regarding the aircraft used in the flight on Monday, 10th June, 2024.
Kambanje said it is both concerning and unjust to lay blame on individuals who can no longer defend themselves while absolving other key figures, including President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera who may bear great responsibility.
He said the Commission’s heavy reliance on the testimonies of government officials including President Chakwera and other high-ranking figures, without critical analysis, has undermined the credibility of the findings.
In his response to the report findings, Comrade Kambanje said absence of ordinary voices such as testimonies from ordinary citizens and individuals not directly tied to the government, raises significant concerns saying the report is more focused on protecting powerful figures than uncovering the truth.
Kambanje said the report is silence on the failures of various government officials particularly those within the Civil Aviation authority and the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), saying many individuals have contributed to the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
He said the Commission’s report is attempting to narrate the events surrounding the tragic incident on 10th June, 2024 saying it is falling short in depth, transparency and accountability focusing on easy scapegoats and rejecting critical questions.
“The report has become a tool for political convenience rather than a genuine investigation, this devastation event has left a profound impact on our nation and it is our duty to ensure that the investigation is conducted with the utmost integrity and impartiality,” reads the writings of Kambanje.in part.
He has called upon the Commission to revisit its findings urging it to engage with a wider range of testimonies to ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families observing that the people of Malawi deserve nothing less than a transparent and accountable investigation that honors the memory of those lost and upholds the principles of justice.
