In a devastating turn of events, the Republic of Malawi is mourning the loss of its Vice President, Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, and nine other individuals following a tragic aircraft accident. The incident was confirmed in an immediate press release by the Office of the President and Cabinet on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.
The Malawi Defense Force aircraft, which disappeared from radar on Monday, June 10, 2024, was found in the Chikangawa forest this morning. The search and rescue teams, comprising the Malawi Defense Force, the Police Service, and the Department of Civil Aviation, discovered the wreckage, confirming that all ten individuals on board had perished.
President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera expressed profound sorrow upon receiving the grim news. In his statement, he extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the Vice President and all others who lost their lives in this tragedy. The President has declared a national day of mourning, with flags ordered to fly at half-mast from today until the day of the funeral.
The nation grieves as it awaits further information from the Office of the President and Cabinet, which will provide updates as they become available.
Colleen Zamba, Secretary to the President and Cabinet, underscored the profound loss felt by the entire nation in this press release issued from Capital Hill, Lilongwe. The tragic event has not only shaken the government but has also left a significant impact on the citizens of Malawi, who are now united in mourning the untimely demise of their Vice President and compatriots.