- Malawi's VP Saulos Chilima was laid to rest after a state funeral.
- Chilima died in a plane crash with 9 others, sparking calls for an independent probe.
- Chilima and President Lazarus Chakwera had an unlikely alliance after challenging election results in court.
- Tension had risen between them as Chakwera announced plans to run for reelection, despite reportedly agreeing to step down.
Malawi’s Vice President, Saulos Chilima, was laid to rest in his village on Monday, following a state funeral at the Bingu Bingu National Stadium in Lilongwe on Sunday. President Lazarus Chakwera called for an independent investigation into Chilima’s death in a plane crash in Malawi’s northern region of Mzimba.
Chilima and nine others died in the crash, which occurred last week. The plane was on a short flight from Lilongwe to Mzuzu when it went missing. Air traffic controllers had advised the plane to return to Lilongwe due to bad weather and poor visibility, but contact was lost shortly after.
A massive search operation was launched, involving hundreds of soldiers, police officers, and forest rangers. The wreckage was discovered in a forest plantation south of Mzuzu after a 24-hour search. The state funeral was attended by dignitaries, including Chakwera, former presidents, and Chilima’s family. The military rendered a 19-gun salute as the body was laid to rest.
The Chilima family also called for an independent probe into the circumstances surrounding the plane crash. President Chakwera echoed this call, promising a thorough investigation. The funeral was a solemn occasion, with wreaths laid by Chakwera, former presidents, and Chilima’s loved ones. The military honored Chilima with a long trumpet post and reveille.
Chilima’s death has sent shockwaves across Malawi, with many calling for answers into the tragic incident. The independent probe is expected to provide closure for the nation. As Malawi bids farewell to its vice president, the country remains in mourning, grappling with the loss of a leader who was widely respected.
