Malawi mourns the loss of Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine other individuals following the crash of a military plane in the Chikangawa forest south of Mzuzu. The aircraft, which had been missing since Monday, was found destroyed with no survivors. President Lazarus Chakwera, in a somber address, announced the tragic news and declared June 11 a national day of mourning.The plane, carrying seven passengers and three military crew members, disappeared from radar on its 45-minute flight from the capital to Mzuzu due to poor weather conditions and poor visibility. Chilima, aged 51, was a central figure in Malawian politics, having been previously implicated in a corruption scandal but subsequently cleared of charges last month. His death comes as a profound shock to the nation, particularly as he was considered a potential candidate in the upcoming presidential elections.The extensive search operation, involving over 600 personnel led by the Malawian military, underscores the gravity of the incident and the concerted efforts to locate the missing plane. Countries in the region offered assistance, including the use of drones and helicopters, to aid in the search. This tragedy has united the nation in grief and has drawn international support and condolences.
Key points
- Vice President Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine others died in a plane crash on the way to Mzuzu.
- The wreckage was found in the Chikangawa forest with no survivors.
- President Lazarus Chakwera declared June 11 a national day of mourning.
