The wreckage of a plane carrying Malawi’s vice-president, Saulos Chilima, and nine others was found with no survivors, according to President Lazarus Chakwera. The military aircraft, flying in bad weather, disappeared from radar on Monday. Soldiers searched Chikangawa Forest overnight. President Chakwera confirmed the aircraft’s destruction in a news briefing, expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy. The search and rescue operation was concluded after the Malawi Defence Force commander reported finding the plane.
President Chakwera paid tribute to DP. Chilima, calling him a “good man,” “devoted father,” and “formidable VP,” expressing honor in having him as a deputy.
Chilima, 51, was en route to represent the government at the burial of former minister Ralph Kasambara. The flight also included former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri. Departing from Lilongwe, the plane was diverted back due to poor visibility and subsequently crashed in Chikangawa Forest. Soldiers searched overnight, and the Malawi Defence Force commander confirmed the wreckage, with the plane found completely destroyed.
President Chakwera expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, highlighting the devastating loss to the nation and the impact on the families of those on board. The news has deeply affected Malawians, with the loss of Chilima being particularly poignant given his significant role in the government and his contributions to the alliance with Chakwera.
The tragic discovery of the plane wreckage carrying Malawi’s vice-president, Saulos Chilima, and nine others has left the nation in mourning. President Lazarus Chakwera, who formed an alliance with Chilima during the 2020 elections, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Chilima was en route to a former minister’s burial when the military aircraft crashed due to poor weather. Chakwera described Chilima as a “good man,” a “devoted father,” and a “formidable VP.”
The military is transporting the remains to Lilongwe, with funeral arrangements forthcoming. Chilima, vice-president since 2014, was popular among the youth but faced corruption charges in 2022, which were recently dropped. He is survived by his wife, Mary, and their children, Sean and Elizabeth. Former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri was also on the ill-fated flight. This loss has profoundly impacted Malawi, marking a significant blow to the nation’s political landscape and its citizens.
