Melo News | Tuesday, June 11, 2024 | Lusaka
Malawi’s President, Lazarus Chakwera, tragically confirmed the passing of his Vice President, Saulos Chilima, on Tuesday. Chakwera revealed that his deputy was among ten passengers who lost their lives in a plane crash.
During a press conference, President Chakwera disclosed that the aircraft carrying his Vice President went missing when it failed to land at the Mzuzu International Airport, located approximately 380 km (240 miles) north of the capital, Lilongwe. He further stated that the wreckage of the plane has been discovered.
Chakwera expressed his deep sorrow and regret, stating, “The search and rescue operation I ordered to find the missing plane that carried our vice president and nine others has been completed. The plane has been found. And I am deeply saddened and sorry to inform you that it has turned out to be a terrible tragedy.”
Reports from DAILY POST indicated that the plane, carrying Chilima and nine other individuals, vanished from the radar on Monday. The aircraft reportedly crash-landed in Chikangawa forest.
A statement from the President’s office revealed that the Malawi Defense Force aircraft disappeared from the radar after departing from Lilongwe on Monday morning. President Chakwera initiated a search and rescue mission following the inability of aviation officials to establish contact with the plane.
The ill-fated aircraft was scheduled to arrive at Mzuzu International Airport in the country’s northern region shortly after 10:00 local time (11:00 BST). The tragic incident has left the nation mourning the loss of the Vice President and the other passengers on board.
