(Rightallegiance.com) – Tragedy struck Malawi as its Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima, and nine others lost their lives in a plane crash. The aircraft, carrying the officials, plummeted into the Chikangawa mountain range, leaving the nation in mourning. President Lazarus Chakwera declared Tuesday a day of national sorrow to honor the lives lost.
The devastating news emerged after a relentless search effort spanning over a day in the forested terrain of northern Malawi. “Unfortunately, all on board have perished in the crash,” stated the Office of the President and Cabinet on Tuesday morning, confirming the grim outcome of the accident. The military plane had taken off from Lilongwe, the capital, but tragically crashed before reaching its destination.
The ill-fated journey was destined for the funeral of Malawi’s former attorney general. The aircraft disappeared from radar screens, prompting concerns. Air traffic officials revealed that poor visibility hindered the plane’s landing at Mzuzu airport, forcing the pilot to attempt a return to Lilongwe. However, the flight vanished before reaching safety.
President Chakwera, addressing the nation, disclosed that Vice President Chilima and nine others, including military personnel, were aboard the small military plane. Initial reports suggested Chilima’s wife, Mary, was among the passengers, but later updates left her status uncertain.
Dr. Saulos Chilima, aged 51, had been a prominent figure in Malawi’s political landscape, often speculated as a potential presidential candidate. However, his career was not without controversy. In 2022, he faced accusations of corruption, allegedly involving kickbacks from a businessman. Despite consistent denial of the charges, the case was only dropped last month by the national prosecutor.
President Chakwera assured the nation of ongoing search and rescue efforts, emphasizing solidarity in the face of tragedy. “I know this is a heart-breaking situation,” he expressed, acknowledging the collective grief and fear gripping the nation.
International support flooded in, with countries like the United States offering technological assistance in the search operation. The U.S. Embassy in Lilongwe pledged “all available assistance,” underscoring the global concern for Malawi’s loss.