Malawi’s Vice President Saulos Chilima was killed along with nine others in a plane crash, President Lazarus Chakwera announced after the wreckage was found in a forested area. The military plane, which went missing on Monday in bad weather, was located in a mountainous region in the north of the country.
President Chakwera addressed the nation, confirming that all on board were killed on impact. He described the incident as a “terrible tragedy” and expressed profound sorrow.
The plane carried seven passengers, including former first lady Shanil Dzimbiri, and three military crew members. The group was traveling to Mzuzu for the funeral of a former justice minister. The aircraft departed from Lilongwe but lost communication with air traffic control after being advised to return due to poor weather conditions.
Efforts to locate the plane were hampered by bad visibility and the remote location of the crash site. The remains of the deceased were later transported to Lilongwe.
President Chakwera praised Vice President Chilima as a dedicated public servant and a significant figure in Malawian politics. Chilima, who had recently resumed his duties after being cleared of corruption charges, was noted for his contributions to commerce and industry.
Condolences have been received from various international organizations and nations, including the African Union, the European Union, and the United States. Funeral arrangements will be announced soon.
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