By Twink Jones Gadama
The football fraternity in Malawi has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of former Red Lions striker, Frank ‘Brazil’ Musah. Musah, who was part of a peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), was reportedly shot dead by M23 rebels on Tuesday.
According to reports, Musah was part of a group of individuals who had traveled to the DRC as part of a peacekeeping mission.
Musah, who was a skilled and prolific striker during his playing days with Red Lions, had been an integral part of the peacekeeping mission.
News of Musah’s death sent shockwaves through the football community in Malawi, with many of his former teammates and colleagues taking to social media to pay tribute to the slain striker.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Frank’s death,” said Red Lions captain. “He was a great player and an even better person. He will be deeply missed by all of us who knew him.”
Musah’s death is the latest in a series of violent incidents to affect the DRC, where rebel groups have been waging a brutal insurgency against the government. The M23 rebels, who are believed to be responsible for Musah’s death, have been accused of numerous human rights abuses, including killings, rapes, and kidnappings.
Mussa is among two other Malawian soldiers killed by the M23 rebels.
South Africa has also lost nine soldiers during the fierce battle with the M23 rebels.
The death of Musah has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many calling for the Malawian government to stay away from conflicts in DRC and spare lives of Malawian Soldiers.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the senseless killing of Frank Musah,” said the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) in a statement. “We urge the authorities to bring back the remaining Malawian soldiers in DRC.”
As the football community in Malawi and beyond comes to terms with the loss of Musah, tributes continue to pour in for the slain striker.
“Frank was a true legend of the game,” said former Malawi national team coach, Kinnah Phiri. “He will be deeply missed by all of us who knew him. May his soul rest in peace.”
Musah’s death is a tragic reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by individuals who work in peace keeping mission in conflict-ridden regions. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, both on and off the football pitch.
