Malawi’s Vice President killed in plane crash

During a live televised address on Tuesday, President Lazarus Chakwera announced that Malawi’s Vice-President, Saulos Chilima, was one of 10 individuals who tragically lost their lives in a small military plane crash in a mountainous area in the north of the country.

The plane had lost contact with air traffic controllers on Monday due to adverse weather conditions, with the president confirming that there were no survivors and that the aircraft was completely destroyed upon being located near a hill by a search and rescue team.

President Chakwera expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Vice-President Chilima, describing him as a dedicated individual who had served his country with distinction. The president highlighted Chilima’s character and contributions, emphasizing the impact of his passing on both his family and the nation.

The group on board the plane, which included former first lady Shanil Dzimbiri, was en route to Mzuzu for the funeral of a former government minister. Chilima, 51, was known as a potential candidate in the upcoming presidential election and had faced corruption allegations in 2022, which were later dropped.

President Chakwera stated that funeral arrangements for the deceased passengers and crew members would be announced at a later time.