By Arkangel Tembo
Lilongwe, February 21, Mana: The mortal remains of former Flames goalkeeper, Charles Swini, left area 51 in Lilongwe Wednesday afternoon for Lozi Village in Nkhotakota where he will be laid to rest.
Hundreds of football supporters led by Malawi's Attorney General, Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda, stood at exactly 1:15pm and watch the convoy of white Civo United 36 seater coaster leave Swini's residence.
Football supporters braced the heat to watch their hero being whisked away in a brown coffin bought by Member of Parliament (MP) for Kasungu North, Mike Bango, who was his closest friend.
Silver Strikers and Civo United players as well supporters turned out in their large numbers to pay homage to Swini, who also played for their clubs.
Swini died Tuesday at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe after stones were found in his kidney.
Speeches were made from the bereaved family, football officials and the clergy before the body’s departure for Nkhotakota.
Choir members were singing, "Amayi tsalani ngakhale mundikonda Ambuye tsogoleleni ndili ndekha,"As the driver of the coaster kick start the bus to start their journey.
The convoy headed out towards the main road to Area 25 all the way to the M1 road.
People gathered along the route to bid a final farewell to Swini, with many making a cross with their arms. Other took photos with their cellphones.
In area 25 road, the convoy was warmly received, with hundreds of people singing and waving at the coffin as it passed by.
There was a festive atmosphere, with fans dressed in Silver Strikers regalia, waving, as some were chanting, "A Charlo yendani bwino Mulungu akuyang'anireni."
Swini, who was born on 30th April, 1983 is survived by a wife and three children.
Mana photo journalist, Arkangel Tembo captured the ceremony on camera.
